City Of Angels
David A. Saylor Lyrics

The lyrics to David A. Saylor's song "City of Angels" paint a vivid picture of the dark and gritty side of Los Angeles. The opening lines set the tone, describing the extreme heat and pollution that engulf the city, with smog forming a metaphorical halo. The mention of traffic and clogged arteries adds to the sense of congestion and frustration that is often associated with the city. The jaded workers blowing horns symbolize a desire for change, a yearning to break free from the monotony of their lives and find rejuvenation.

The chorus, "I've been flying in the city of angels, flying in the city of angels," suggests a feeling of soaring above the chaos and limitations of the city. The songwriter expresses a longing to understand where angels go when they find themselves in such a low state. The singer's reference to heaven and the desire to be taken out of this place suggests a clear feeling of being trapped and seeking an escape from the negative energy that pervades the city.

The next verse highlights the juxtaposition of wealth and disregard for others present in the city. It mentions high fashion paid for by the gram and high priests who couldn't care less about those they are meant to guide and help. The lunatic prophets mentioned could symbolize those who are seen as crazy or eccentric but may hold some truth or insight. The line "It's the high price you pay to feed the spoon" suggests that in this greed-driven society, people must sacrifice a lot to maintain their image or sustain themselves, further emphasizing the dark side of the city.

The following stanza depicts the destruction of nature, as smokestacks suck the clear blue out of the sky. This could be seen as a commentary on the environmental damage caused by industrialization and pollution. The line "This city breaks you like a habit and holds you like a spell" represents the addictive nature of the city. It captures the sense that once you are drawn into the allure and energy of this place, it becomes challenging to escape, trapping you in a cycle that is difficult to break. The mention of getting high could refer to seeking a momentary escape through substance abuse or other forms of indulgence.

In conclusion, "City of Angels" by David A. Saylor delves into the darker aspects of Los Angeles, exploring themes of pollution, congestion, superficiality, and the feeling of being trapped. The lyrics portray a yearning for freedom and a desire to escape the negativity and destructive habits perpetuated by the city. It serves as a poignant portrayal of the struggles and contradictions of a place known for its glitz and glamour, but also for the darker underbelly that exists beneath the surface.