So often is it cited as a core truth of almost any practice (law, medicine, sports, magic, or life) that I feel almost shameful mentioning it here: It is always the simplest pieces that take the longest to master.
They are always taught first, and always take the longest to teach. When I hear the word "fundamentals" I cannot help but hear it in the gravely, heavily accented voice of my high school water polo coach. He yelled that word at least once a practice for all four years of school, usually followed by "god damn it!" He was not wrong to make this a near-mantra.
In this respect, Ekistomancy is no different. The simplest action within the practice is the most vital.
Be present with the city.
That's it.
Be present with the city.
You live in it. So do thousands or maybe millions of others. It is the amalgamated physical result of billions of man-hours of thought and dream and action. The least you can do is acknowledge its being around you.
The city is an arcology of buildings: examine them from basement to roof-beam.
The city is a mass of people: chronicle them as if you were a writer hunting for characters.
The city is a wunderkammer of objects: take them home with you, recombine them, and push them back out into the world.
The city creates the air you breath and the (usually) concrete ground under your feet: feel them.
Look around you. Notice. Record. Wonder. Enjoy.
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