Unapproved urban colonizers must camouflage and foreswear groups, hindering their true resident life.

Evidence

Continuing colonization is possible without the tacit consent of those responsible for the setting, but in such cases, camouflage becomes essential. However, it seems unlikely that any large numbers of persons can successfully colonize without tacit approval. (Certainly unapproved colonizers may be part of a group and learn the ways of colonization through the group; but if they are to be successful, they cannot appear in the setting with large numbers of their fellows.) Camouflaged colonization also greatly restricts the exhibition of the other characteristics of residents, particularly backstage language. — Lyn H. Lofland, World of Strangers_ Order and Action in…, 739

Categorization

• XREF: Connects to the reader’s core problem of how urban anonymity forces concealment of identity; the split between camouflage/performance and ‘backstage language’ resonates with Goffman’s front/back stage and with Simmel’s blasé observer who hides behind detachment.