Expanding on ‘Tension’ and ‘Conflict’
After posting my written response, I realised I didn’t clearly explain what I meant by ‘tension’ and ‘conflict.’ I was referring to small shifts in atmosphere that occur when rhythms fall out of sync.
For example, when people show consideration by speaking softly, tidying up, or being mindful of others, the atmosphere remains calm and balanced. On the other hand, loud arguing or leaving rubbish behind can alter the mood, and I often find myself quietly moving away to sit somewhere calmer.
These subtle moments reveal how awareness and unawareness can reshape the atmosphere of a shared space, demonstrating that public environments are defined as much by human care as by their physical form.