I am sure there are many who grew up in Chicago (and have known nothing else) and/or are of limited means who believe themselves to be trapped ... or trapped enough ... to be paralyzed with enough fear of the unknown not to make the seemingly wise choice to get the hell out of there. In the absolute, you are correct, De - such people are "trapped" only from the lack of their own volition. They simply cannot summon the internal will to act and take the first step. So, I agree, they are the primary impediment to improving their own lot in life ... which is the case for a whole lot of people in this world. BUT, even so, that does not render me completely unsympathetic towards those who feel the overriding need (for whatever reason) to try to lead responsible, productive lives within the confines of Chicago, Illinois.
The essential American soul is hard, isolate, stoic, and a killer. It has never yet melted. ~ D.H. Lawrence
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