New Lost

Most nights the 3 train takes you to New Lots Avenue. This Sunday evening, the 3 train decided to try on a new hat and take folks to Flatbush Avenue instead, leaving those who live at New Lots taking a shuttle bus at Franklin. The announcement was made by the conductor, as well as splashed about the station on signs with alternate suggestions. Somebody forgot to translate those instructions into every single language spoken by those who live at New Lots. A tired looking Southwest- Asian man gets the attention of the women sitting next to me, just as the train splits off and starts going down the new way: "New Lost!?" "It normally goes to New Lots but it's not tonight." "New Lots?" "Yes, the 3 train usually goes to New Lots but because of construction you have to take the bus at Franklin instead." He points desperately at the piece of paper in his hand. I direct his attention to a sign behind his head with the instructions on it, hoping his read English is better than what he hears. He studies it with a furrowed brow, dramatically flapping his piece of paper. He looks again at the women sitting next to me: "New Lost!" They convince him to take the train going back to Franklin, a massive Jamaican woman shaking her head as he dashes out. "I don't think he gets it."