‘Magical mystery tour’

—Photo by Petar Milošević

“Criticizing Boston’s taxicabs is about as controversial as taking a stand against earthquakes, ax murderers, or the Third Reich….The drivers themselves are generally friendly but often topographically confused….No two rides are the same. No two taxis take you from Point A to Point B via Route C. And even if they do, the fares are somehow different. To enter a taxi in The Hub is to embark on a magical mystery tour of assorted mechanical surprises and geographic wonders.’’

— Nathan Cobb, in “Taxiing Toward a Fun City, in Cityside/Countryside (1980)

Maybe more reliable? Outside Boston’s Brutalist City Hall.