In New York City’s fast-paced cityscape, time has become a l

In New York City’s fast-paced cityscape, time has become a luxury. Between work, meetups, social events, and side projects, it’s nearly impossible to carve out the downtime needed for meaningful, creative work. At the same time, the subway, often considered a slow bridge between the city’s bustling energy, becomes a refuge where one can focus intently on their code. The subway, with its 30-minute round trips (or an hour each way), is a microcosm of the city’s chaotic rhythm, forcing anyone to get off the train and sit at home. In this article, I’ll explore how my time in New York City has become a refuge for subtle programming. Subtle programming on the subway: You don’t need simulators or expensive software to code. On the subway, you can do it all day long—just your code. The subway’s slow pace and limited distractions allow me to focus exclusively on my work, even if I’m not doing anything exciting. Whether I’m testing a package or compiling documentation, the time is valuable. Coding tools are the backbone of this programming: You don’t need simulators—it all works out. On the subway, you’re using Nix, a tool that let’s you code without needing expensive hardware or internet access. If you do need an internet connection, most subway stops have free WiFi, and even if you do, it’s a quick bus trip to connect and use the device for just a few minutes. It’s surprisingly effective—saving me hours of coding time while I wait for my train. Subway environment: It’s rare but not impossible to get stuck coding on the subway. You’ll set up a small project in your bag, sketching out diagrams on paper or keeping a notebook handy for complex projects. The subway’s limited space and high speed limit you to a few simultaneous tasks—simulating productivity while keeping it low. Personal habits: I’ve developed some unique habits. If coding is only for an hour a day (or more occasionally), I’ll put my laptop in the bag, sketching out diagrams while standing up. On rare occasions when coding alone is impossible, I’ll use glasses to set up a display—my code will be visible through them, but it won’t look weird. So, here’s how I’ve turned this subway time into programming: By being patient and methodical, I’ve learned to manage my deadlines even in the most distracting environment. It’s a reminder that creativity thrives when you have a clear mind—whether your laptop is in the bag or you’re using a display. The subway has become more than just a transport; it’s a sanctuary for subtle, deep work.