If I was in your situation, I would've screamed and teared up because I'm too chicken to say anything. And then afterwards, if my boyfriend was with me, he would've plugged his ear because I would've given him an earful.
Actually, for the metro's sake I have to say D.C.'s is top notch. CLEAN CLEAN CLEAN compared to others I have been on. Pretty safe too.
I just hate the whole clausterphobia thing when the train is jam packed full!
***hugs*** i hope you're ok and when you got home you had a nice cup of tea to calm the nerves etc....! you're safe now - thats whats important! and its a bonus that Speedy is fine too!!!!
The important part is that you're okay. Hey, I'm all for protecting a beloved bag, but your safety comes first. (Imagine that you rather than Speedy was what was smooshed against the pole. Yipes!)
It may not work when people are so tightly packed in together, but I've noticed fake but violent sneezing or coughing often entices people to give way as well.