New York
Merdith Bragg And The Terminals Lyrics


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New York City gleams for everyone it seems
To those left behind while others say goodbye.

But I would be lying if I said I'm fine.
That city's trying to take friends of mine.
Well I just can't compete with the glow from neon streets.
So when their cars are packed I'll smile and wave right back.
But I would be lying if I said I'm okay.




New York is trying to take more friends away

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to "New York" by Meredith Bragg And The Terminals describe the bittersweet experience of watching friends leave for the bright lights and opportunities of New York City, feeling left behind and struggling to come to terms with the loss. The opening lines communicate the allure of the city for those seeking adventure, suggesting that it shines and shines for everyone. However, for those who are not able to make the journey, it can feel like a painful separation as friends depart and start a new life.


The lyrics are particularly poignant as they convey the feeling of being left behind and the associated emotions of isolation and sadness. The second verse particularly highlights this as the singer admits that they would be lying if they said they were fine, and that the city is trying to take away their friends. The contrast between the singer's feelings of hurt and frustration with the bright lights and excitement of New York City is a central conflict in the song.


Overall, "New York" is a powerful meditation on the feelings of loss and regret that come with friends departing for new adventures in the city, capturing the often wistful mood of those left behind.


Line by Line Meaning

New York City gleams for everyone it seems
The city of New York shines brightly and catches the eye of every person.


To those left behind while others say goodbye.
However, those who remain in the city are left behind while others leave and say their goodbyes.


But I would be lying if I said I'm fine.
Although I might try to put on a brave face, I am not truly okay.


That city's trying to take friends of mine.
The city of New York is taking away people important to me and causing me pain.


Well I just can't compete with the glow from neon streets.
The bright, colorful lights of New York outshine me and make me feel small in comparison.


So when their cars are packed I'll smile and wave right back.
Even though it hurts, I will say goodbye and show support for those leaving the city.


But I would be lying if I said I'm okay.
Despite my attempts to seem okay, I am struggling with the loss of my friends and the changes in the city.


New York is trying to take more friends away.
The city of New York is making it difficult for me to keep the people I care about close to me and is constantly taking them away.




Lyrics © ROUGH TRADE PUBLISHING, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Meredith Lynton Bragg

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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