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a man moves in: a photo essay from northern chile

11/2/2014

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I had a unique opportunity this morning. I was given access to an apartment of a friend whose boyfriend (pololo) had started moving some of his things in. I took the opportunity to snap some shots of his stuff: the most important things for daily living he had transplanted into her space. I thought something a little different might make for an interesting post. 

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the first things to appear: toiletries.

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the second thing he brought over: a large, flat screen television.
mostly used for watching dvds of the walking dead.

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various articles of clothing and a motorcycle helmet. 
he sold the motorcycle about a year ago, but keeps the helmet on prominent display

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binoculars. 
i'm informed that so far they have only been used to watch neighbors on their balconies. 


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stereo. 
a recent birthday present to himself

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skateboard. 
his polola says she's never seen him use it, but he occasionally comments on hills that he deems worthy of using it on.

I suspect these items would be common in Northern Chile, but I cannot be sure. I am curious what might items might be the most important for a woman moving into her boyfriend's apartment. Would the amount of toiletries and clothing be bigger? Would the number and size of electronics be smaller? Or perhaps different in nature (hair dryers instead of stereos)? I am equally curious how these things vary from culture to culture.

I am reminded of my summers during grad school when I would pack up my car with the essentials and drive twelve hours from Washington D.C. to Chicago to spend two months with my boyfriend. Two boxes of books, a suitcase of clothes (another small duffle bag for shoes), my computer, and my bike helmet were the essentials. 

Obviously these things vary person to person, but this instant of beginning to move in with a significant other is not only important for the relationship. The things we move with us first, the things we deem most essential to daily life, these items of material culture give a unique and deeply revealing look into a person. 

I'm curious what other people have taken or would take when beginning to move in. Whether it is with a significant other, a friend, or simply an extended stay with family-what are the essential material possessions you take with you? Please leave a comment!
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