A super-friendly 1950s-style diner, empty because of Covid: Leah Frances's best photograph
Briefly

A move to Brooklyn in 2005 revealed a trend of building 1950s diner-style establishments. The perception of nostalgia and its impact on culture, particularly regarding Trump-era rhetoric, raises concerns about romanticizing the past. A journey through Pennsylvania uncovered towns that encapsulate a blend of past and present. The Instagram account American Squares emphasizes the architectural beauty of diners, contrasting modern perspectives with the intentions of their creators who looked forward to the future. The restoration of the Very Best hot dog joint reflects local resilience amid economic decline.
The nostalgia tied to the 1950s diner-style restaurants overlooks the harsh realities faced by many during that era, suggesting a dangerous romanticization of the past.
Driving around smaller towns in Pennsylvania, I discovered places reflecting a bygone era—a beauty in their decay, where the past and present coexist.
The Instagram account American Squares was created to delve into nostalgia—with a focus on the stunning details of diners, rather than a simplistic longing for past times.
In Pottstown, the restoration of the Very Best hot dog joint symbolizes the potential for revival in local businesses and adds layers to the narrative of community resilience.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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