why does taking the subway feel like some marvelous metropolitan experience where you're one of many in the bustling inner workings of a vibrant hub --
but being in traffic, with the same people around you, in the same city, feels oppressive and annoying and shitty
because you're moving your body and experiencing new things. that only works when you have time and energy and the areas of said subways are clean and crime free though. otherwise you're aloof and alert and zombie walking mode. it is all subjective.
I think part of it is because you can see the people. You notice who they are, instead of just the big object in front of you, preventing you from moving.