Skytraining in Vancouver

Yes, I’m one of the 1-in-4 Vancouverites who use public transit. Daily, I’m greeted with the prospect of carefully pouring myself into the strange human brew that is our Surrey neighbours to the east, ladies from the secretarial pool, and the very foreign exchange students. Yes, it is a diverse group. Yet we are bonded by not only questionable hygiene but, apparently very precise and defined marketing segmentation.

Take a look around the train next time. No, not at the commuters - I try not to make eye contact. But look at the ads. “Unplanned Pregnancy?”, “Bankruptcy?”, “Need a career change?”, “Got Some Family Abuse?” According to the almighty marketers, this seemingly is what us Skytrain commuters have in common. (See why I avoid eye contact? We look strange and indeed, we are strange).

Every ad revolves around these real but depressing issues. Whatever happened to the Pepsi, Kit Kat, or Garnier Fructis ads? It's not enough that we’re packed uncomfortably close to each other but really, must we be reminded of our inadequacies?

Well, I don’t think we’re all bankrupt unemployed bastards, but crammed shoulder to backpack and reading these ads, it gets downright depressing. So marketers, do us a favour! Bring back the consumer ads - chocoate bars, coffee, hair products (yes, hygiene products please) - and give yourselves a Kit Kat, give us commuters a break!