The above image has torn the Gothamist Etiquette Board apart. This woman was spotted during this morning's rush hour commute. Is she in the wrong for sitting in a way that's not considered "normal"—extending her legs upwards in an impressive yoga maneuver that is hurting absolutely no one, while radiating that perfectly smug look?
No. And you know what, maybe this woman's way is even better than the standard way one would sit in this seat. Here's why: If she sat with her legs in front of her, her knees would likely hit the other seat, or the person sitting in the other seat. As is, if someone sat in that seat, they would have more personal space.
And besides, for too long women have had to shrink their bodies to accommodate for manspreading. It's time to take back the subway, ladies. Crack open a cold one if you're with me.
As usual, my colleagues strongly disagree with me:
Jen Carlson [3:46 PM] please tell me with a Yes or No answer: is that woman breaking subway etiquette laws?
Jen Chung [3:46 PM]
YesJake Offenhartz [3:47 PM]
YesJohn Del Signore [3:47 PM]
obviouslyBen Yakas [3:47 PM]
Yes—she is defying it, laughing in its faceBen Yakas [3:47 PM]
but i appreciate her chutzpahJohn Del Signore [3:47 PM]
People put their heads RIGHT NEXT TO THEREJen Carlson [3:47 PM]
i don't need you guys mansplaining your answersJohn Del Signore [3:48 PM]
Are you cool with me putting my feet up on the wall right by your face? [ed. note: No one has ever touched the part of the subway where this woman's feet are (and she's wearing shoes, at least).]Jen Chung [3:48 PM]
What if she slips and hits someone on the way downJohn Del Signore [3:48 PM]
Good pointJake Offenhartz [3:48 PM]
i'd allow it, john. she's wearing shoes.Jen Chung [3:48 PM]
Shoes have stepped in dog poop and human peeJen Carlson [3:48 PM]
are you guys living in a fantasy world where there's not already pee all over the subway seats?Jake Dobkin [3:49 PM]
jen chung is right. imagine if everyone did that, the chaos and the head-stomping that would happen.Jen Carlson [3:50 PM]
not everyone can even physically do thatJen Chung [3:50 PM]
Think about the train braking!Jake Offenhartz [3:51 PM]
she looks like she knows what she's doingJen Chung [3:51 PM]
just fwded video of rat on escalator going wrong way
Anyway, stay tuned for a video of a rat on an escalator. Happy Friday! (Update: Here you go.)