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“Holy Land” and the comforts of suburbia

A classic account makes clear that many people are happy to lead constrained lives

HE LIVES WHERE most Americans live—in suburbia. His house sits on a plot that is 50 feet wide and 100 feet deep. In front is a pavement, four feet wide, then a strip of green containing a tree, seven feet, then a road, 40 feet. His neighbours’ houses look much the same. At six per acre, homes are close enough for arguments to be overheard, but only if you pay attention. They are close enough for comfort.

This article appeared in the Culture section of the print edition under the headline “The comforts of suburbia”

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