http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/10/nyregion/metropolitan-diary-a-gift-for-the-city-of-new-york.html 2016-10-11 02:36:30 A Gift for the City of New York The first day at an after-school job creates some momentary confusion. === Dear Diary: It’s 1958, and I have scored an after-school job with a furrier on West 32nd Street. “Give this to the City of New York,” says my new boss, holding up a dented and forlorn-looking black umbrella. “Excuse me?” I mutter. What in the world does he want from me? “Give this to the City of New York,” he repeats, louder this time, thrusting the umbrella onto my chest. I grab the umbrella as he turns and stomps away. I’m rooted to the carpeted showroom floor, feeling as if in some kind of absurdist play. This is my first day — first hour, really — of my new job. What’s going on? My boss’s partner comes to the rescue. “See that,” he says, pointing out the display window. I look out, but miss his point. I see people, trucks, taxis, candy wrappers, a windblown newspaper. “What?” I ask, scanning the scene before me. “The can,” he says, pointing again, “there.” And there it is — a large mesh trash can with “The City of New York” emblazoned on the side. “Oh,” I say, “he wants me to…” “Yes, he wants you to throw it away.” So I step outside and give the umbrella to the City of New York.