New York City
John and Yoko Plastic Ono Band Lyrics

The lyrics of John and Yoko Plastic Ono Band's song "New York City" capture the fear and loneliness that can come with life in a big city. The opening lines suggest that people often assume that those who live in cities are successful and happy, but in reality, many are afraid to be alone. The repetition of the word "isolation" throughout the song drives home this feeling of alienation and fear.

The second verse adds a layer of personal frustration, with the singer feeling that he and his partner are "trying to change the whole wide world," but facing resistance from others who want to put them down. In this context, isolation becomes not just a personal feeling but a societal force that seeks to keep people in their place and discourage innovation or change.

The final verse introduces the idea that we are all victims of a larger, insane system. The singer acknowledges that he doesn't expect others to understand his struggles, but also recognizes that they are not to blame for them; instead, they are all just human beings trying to survive in a world that can be cruel and unforgiving. The final lines, with their warning about the potential destruction of the world, add a note of urgency to the song and suggest that isolation is not just a personal problem, but a global one that requires action.