7. Artistic Expression or Urban Folklore

Some artists intentionally hang shoes as social commentary or street art.

Others see it as modern folklore — a ritual without rules, passed down through generations.

It’s become part of the visual language of city life.

So… How Do They Even Get Up There?

Great question. Here are the most common methods:

Tying shoelaces together and throwing them over the wire (like a lasso)

Using a weighted string or fishing line to pull them up

Throwing one shoe at a time and tying them mid-air (expert level!)

And yes — sometimes utility workers remove them during maintenance.

Final Thought: Meaning Is in the Eye of the Beholder

There’s no one “correct” meaning behind shoes on a power line.

Sometimes it’s silly.

Sometimes it’s symbolic.

Often, it’s just kids being kids.

But what remains constant is this:

That simple act — tossing a pair of worn-out shoes into the sky — speaks to something human.

A desire to leave a mark.

To celebrate, remember, or rebel.

To say:

“I was here.”

So next time you see a pair swinging high above the street…

Don’t just pass by.

Look up.

Wonder.

Because every pair of shoes has a story — even if we’ll never know it.