|
The comparison is between "department stores" and "boutiques". Most people benefit from the variety, convenience, and affordability of department stores, but lament the loss of certain specialties. Yet there remain boutiques for the carriage trade, for those who know, care, and can afford the specialties. Similarly, you can get about anything you want in a big city or upscale suburb (including more authentic Chinese food or bagels). Anyway, most people benefit so thoroughly in the process that I do not think I am ever the optimist, just a kindly soul who likes to see the rise of the common standard of living...By the way, I can get superb tomatoes at the end of the summer, because the Eastern Shore of Maryland is a great region for the product, and they even appear in supermarkets, and especially in roadside stands. However, "authentic tomatoes" that are ready to eat are available for about one month, and I like salad..... |
