Fast Food
By Kristal Armendariz
7 July 2008
Convenience is king. Just about anything you desire is available at a drive thru window. Need to pay a bill, drop off film or pick up a prescription? Hungry for pancakes, egg rolls or a burger and fries? It's just a short drive away and you won't need to walk a step.
America loves to get things fast, cheap and easy, but this convenience comes at a price. Human interaction isn't part of the equation. Speak into the box. Order by number. We become nothing more than two disembodied hands reaching across the void, careful not to touch. Grab and go.
There are a wide variety of drive thrus. Some attempt to decorate for the seasons. Some leave notes and instructions. Others use metal and dark film to minimize contact between cashiers and customers. The coldness and distance fascinate me. Do we feel safer, tucked away in our vehicles, surrounded by the wrappers from yesterday's dinner? I study the glass, half window and half mirror. It allows a distorted view inside and reflects at the same time. What do they think of me? Do they see a person or am I just another hand pulling up to their window?
See more drive through pictures here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kristyk/sets/72157600009108133/
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