In the enchanting world of New York politics—a place where reality often takes a vacation and imagination runs a brisk marathon—we find ourselves amidst a theatrical spectacle known as the mayoral election. At the center of this swirling circus is none other than Zohran Mamdani, a man whose smile might as well belong to a toothpaste commercial, yet whose promises some say are as tangible as dragons and unicorns.

Now, we all enjoy a good fairy tale with promises of “free this” and “free that,” but when someone starts offering castles in the sky, a few folks might have their doubts. “Free,” in the language of the practical, is a mythical creature—like a dragon—that sounds fascinating until you realize, unlike the fire-breathing friends of lore, reality doesn’t conjure such delights without a price.

It’s bemusing, really. As Mamdani makes his case for mayor, offering enticing metaphors of grocery stores in food deserts and raises for all—seemingly perfect ideas—some New Yorkers are left scratching their heads, wondering if they’re being groomed for a Soviet-themed scavenger hunt. Without a doubt, they’ve seen a few too many fairy tales, knowing well the fantastical creatures never really show up to do battle.

Across the political landscape, Mamdani’s campaign has attracted a motley crew of supporters. From those questioning the logic of supermarket socialism to others blinded by the glitter of freebie politics, there’s no shortage of spirited conversation. Yet, the voices of reason remain firm, cautioning against any dreamy-eyed aspirations that promise an economic wonderland without explaining the magic trick that makes it all possible.

Now, there’s a touch of grandeur in these well-scripted illusions. However, anyone who lived through or learned from tales of failed socialist endeavors might raise an eyebrow. Whispers of empty Soviet grocery shelves come to mind—a helpful reminder from history that “free” doesn’t always fill the pantry. Hence, the question isn’t merely about if these promises sound good; it’s if they’ll work without turning Manhattan’s already colorful streets into a borough of broken dreams.

And finally, our dear comrade, Bernie Sanders, makes his cameo—a stalwart socialist who has spent decades professing the virtues of an ideologically pure system. Yet here in New York, Mamdani’s quest echoes a familiar refrain: the promise of prosperity wrapped in well-worn socialist robes. With a history of such dreams dissolving into very un-magical realities, it’s a tale as old as time itself, replaying once more on the grand stage of one of the world’s greatest cities…for now, at least.