New York City
David R. Jones Lyrics
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I can't remember when it's time to go
When I look in the mirror
Tracing lines with a pencil
I remember what came before
I wanted to think there was endless love
Until I saw the light dim in your eyes
Sometimes there's love that won't survive
New York City
Such a beautiful disease
New York City
Such a beautiful,
Such a beautiful disease
Laura kept all her disappointments
Locked up in a box behind her closet door
She pulled the blinds and listened to the thunder
With no way out from the family store
We all told her things could get better
When you just say goodbye
I'll lay awake one more night
Caught in a vision I want to deny
And did I mention the note that I found
Taped to my locked front door
It talked about no regrets
As it slipped from my hand to the scuffed tile floor
I rode the train for hours on end
And watched the people pass me by
It could be that it has no end
Just an action junkie's lullaby
New York City
We were full of the stuff that every dream rested
As if floating on a lumpy pillow sky
Caught up in the whole illusion
That dreams never pass us by
Came to a tattooed conclusion
That the big one was knocking on the door
What started as a mass delusion
Would take me far from the place I adore
New York City
The lyrics of "New York City" by David R. Jones paint a poignant picture of introspection and disillusionment in the bustling metropolis. The opening lines convey a sense of uncertainty and reflection as the singer struggles to remember plans for tomorrow and the passage of time, symbolized by tracing lines on the mirror with a pencil. This act serves as a metaphor for reminiscing about the past and contemplating one's journey.
The song then delves into themes of lost love and realization as the singer witnesses the fading light in someone's eyes, signifying a moment of reckoning that not all love can endure. The chorus repeats the phrase "such a beautiful disease," suggesting a conflicting sentiment towards New York City - a place that is both captivating and destructive in its allure, mirroring the complexities of relationships and personal struggles.
The narrative shifts to Laura, who keeps her disappointments hidden away, unable to escape the confines of her circumstances. The imagery of listening to the thunder behind closed blinds evokes a sense of entrapment and resignation. Despite the encouragement from others that things could improve with a goodbye, the singer grapples with a haunting vision that refuses to be denied, hinting at unresolved emotions and uncertainty about the future.
The song further explores the transient nature of dreams and illusions against the backdrop of New York City. The mention of finding a note on the front door and riding the train aimlessly reflects a sense of detachment and searching for meaning amidst the constant movement of urban life. The chorus reiterates the conflicting nature of the city as a place full of promise and disappointment, where dreams seemingly float in a surreal landscape, leading to a realization that the allure of the city may ultimately lead to a departure from what was once cherished.
In the final verse, the singer acknowledges the mass delusion that once held sway over their perception, recognizing that a significant change is imminent. The imagery of a "tattooed conclusion" and the metaphor of the "big one knocking on the door" suggest a definitive shift in perspective and a departure from the familiar. The song captures the complexity of emotions tied to New York City, blending nostalgia, disillusionment, and a realization of the transient nature of dreams and desires in a city that both captivates and challenges.
Line by Line Meaning
I can't remember what I planned tomorrow
Feeling lost and uncertain about the future
I can't remember when it's time to go
Feeling stuck in the present moment
When I look in the mirror
Reflecting on the past and present
Tracing lines with a pencil
Trying to make sense of past events
I remember what came before
Recalling memories and experiences
New York City
Describing the setting of the story
Such a beautiful disease
Acknowledging the complex and destructive nature of the city
Laura kept all her disappointments
Describing a character's struggles
Locked up in a box behind her closet door
Feeling trapped and overwhelmed by emotions
She pulled the blinds and listened to the thunder
Seeking solace in solitude during a storm
With no way out from the family store
Feeling trapped in a cycle of pain and struggle
And did I mention the note that I found
Recalling a significant event
Taped to my locked front door
Symbolizing closure and finality
It talked about no regrets
Embracing acceptance and moving forward
As it slipped from my hand to the scuffed tile floor
Letting go of the past and accepting change
I rode the train for hours on end
Seeking distraction and escape
And watched the people pass me by
Observing the transient nature of life
Just an action junkie's lullaby
Describing a restless and unfulfilled existence
We were full of the stuff that every dream rested
Feeling hopeful and inspired by potential dreams
As if floating on a lumpy pillow sky
Embracing the uncertainty and comfort of dreams
Came to a tattooed conclusion
Arriving at a permanent and personal realization
That the big one was knocking on the door
Recognizing a significant life event approaching
Would take me far from the place I adore
Accepting the need for change and growth
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: WINFRED LOVETT
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind