Graffiti is a common feature of most Western cities. The word graffiti was from the Greek word, graphein, which only meant writing. These days, however, the word means drawing or writing the wall of buildings, or the public transportation, such as trains or buses.

    Graffiti, as a form of expression, was born in New York during 1960s and 1970s. At that time, a new modern culture about city life appeared. Graffiti was a written form of expression of that life. Later, it was (mix) with a musical form called hip-hop that was another expression of the city life.

    At first, graffiti artists used pens. But then, with the (develop) of graffiti, they became (experience). They turned to using spray paint. Spray paint allowed them to draw a greater area. And it also allowed them to work (quick) than before, which was an advantage when they worked in neighborhoods graffiti wasn't welcome.

    At the present time, different people have different ideas about graffiti. Some people say makes the cities dirty. It isn't allowed by many local governments in America. The governments spend more than a million dollars a year (clean) graffiti. The money, they say, could be better spent on health or education. Other people think it is a form of art. In fact, the (work) of some famous graffiti artists can be found in museums, galleries and art books.