More than anything else, the economy shapes life and outlook in the region. It is stagnant - and grim. Many compare Ekaterinburg to Chicago in the late '20s and early '30s, when it was mired in the Depression and gangster wars. The surroundings reflect that. Broken glass glitters from the ground.
Few plantings liven the landscape.
At Uralsky Rabochy, lights are dim if they are even turned on. In May, there is no heat to ward off the lingering chill. Iron bars split toward both sides of the hallways. I must remember to step up when entering a room, over the rise that meets the metal doors that are closed and locked when the occupant is away. It is a closed-door environment.