Conductor at Van Wyck: This is… not Jamaica. [Quietly] Where the hell is he going?
–Manhattan‐bound E train
Overheard by: Julie
Conductor: This is 71st, Continental Avenue. Transfer here for the E. This is the E Train to 180… This is the E Train to 170… This is the F… This is the… Oh, whatever. Just stand clear of the fucking doors.
–Most definitely the F train
Overheard by: Megan Cowles
Conductor: This is an express F Train to Stillwell Avenue. What does that mean? I don’t know. What are the express stops?
–Brooklyn‐bound F train
Overheard by: Pam
Conductor: This is a Manhattan‐bound One Train. Next stop, 42nd Street. I mean, 34th Street… Shit… Next stop, 14th Street, Union Square!
–L train, Morgan Ave
Overheard by: erin b
Conductor: Captain, we’ve lost power — we have no lights. If you would like to look at people or read, please move. If you do not wish to look at anyone or let anyone look at you, just stay put. This is the train to Babylon. I do not know what the next stop is.
–LIRR
Overheard by: scared passenger
Conductor: The Queens‐bound N Train will be arriving on the platform downstairs. [It pulls into the station across from the platform.] I take that back.
–7 train, Queensboro Plaza
Overheard by: Melissa Berry
Conductor: Ladies and gentlemen, there is a downtown… [long pause]… Whatever. Stand clear of the edge.
–6 platform, Union Square
Overheard by: Johnny
