On October 20, the Chicago Tribune published an opinion piece by David Mamet entitled “This is why Chicago was once the marvel of our nation.” Mamet expresses his disappointment in the current state of Chicago, highlighting the city’s past achievements in arts, sciences, and commerce. He argues that the city’s current reputation is marred by violence and crime, overshadowing its previous glory.
Mamet reminisces about the great Chicagoans who have contributed to the city’s legacy, including Malcolm X, Seymour Hersh, Sherry Lansing, Larry Ellison, and Shelby Steele. He also mentions the significance of the blues music that originated in Chicago. However, some of Mamet’s claims are questioned, such as the residency of certain individuals in his South Side neighborhood.
The decline of Chicago is attributed by Mamet to “machine politics,” which he believes has led to the city’s downfall. He criticizes Mayor Richard J. Daley for silencing dissent and calls for a return to civic pride and common sense. Mamet’s perspective on crime in Chicago is shaped by his experience as a screenwriter, but statistics show that crime rates have fluctuated over the years.
While crime rates in Chicago have decreased in recent years, there is still a concentrated level of violence in certain neighborhoods. Mamet’s views on politics, particularly his support for Trump, are highlighted in his writings. He sees Trump as a unique figure in American politics, while others view him differently.
Despite the challenges facing Chicago, Mamet remains hopeful for the city’s future. He acknowledges the wealth of talent that resides in Chicago and the resilience of its people. The city continues to thrive in the face of adversity, with its vibrant arts and culture scene. Chicagoans will persevere, continuing to write, sing, and build, regardless of the criticism and challenges they face.
