Fourty years after this debut, Nick Garrie is back with "49 Arlington Gardens", long-awaited new album, due to be released on Elefant Records in early 2009.
Stephanie City
Nick Garrie Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
She never leaves a name
She says she'll get there in the end
But for now it's just the same
My lover ain't like other girls
That folks are proud to meet
She's not in church on sundays
They say that only money
Can make this creature smile
And whatever she may give you
Is rented for a while
My lover ain't like other girls
That folks are proud to meet
She's not in church on sundays
She walks the street
She's analysed in magazines
They say her greed will make her die
She's criticized by most it seems
Especially those whom she's seen cry
My lover ain't like other girls
That folks are proud to meet
She's not in church on sundays
She walks the street
When city dawn is breaking
She comes home silently
And though it's sleep I'm faking
She just laughs at me
And she comes to me so softly
Starling with a broken wing
And she speaks her love in silence
She's a gentle thing
My lover ain't like other girls
That folks are proud to meet
She's not in church on sundays
She walks the street
The lyrics of Nick Garrie's song "Stephanie City" tell the story of a woman who lives life on her own terms and does not conform to societal norms. She is not concerned with impressing others or portraying a certain image. Instead, she chooses to live authentically and embrace who she truly is, regardless of the judgments and criticisms of others. The singer compares her to other girls that society deems as acceptable and states that she is not like them.
The lyrics also touch on the idea that happiness and fulfillment cannot be bought with money, as society may believe. The woman in the song is often judged for her lifestyle and criticized for her supposed greed, yet she remains true to herself and continues to walk her own path. Despite the criticisms, she is a gentle and loving person who gives herself wholeheartedly to her lover.
Overall, "Stephanie City" is a celebration of individuality and authenticity. It encourages listeners to embrace their true selves and not be swayed by societal expectations.
Line by Line Meaning
She doesn't have a lot of friends
Stephanie is not very social and doesn't have many friends.
She never leaves a name
She prefers to remain anonymous and does not like to reveal her identity.
She says she'll get there in the end
Stephanie has hope for a better future and believes she will achieve her goals eventually.
But for now it's just the same
Despite her optimism, Stephanie is stuck in a difficult position for the time being.
My lover ain't like other girls
Nick is aware that Stephanie is different from other women he knows.
That folks are proud to meet
Stephanie doesn't fit the typical mold of someone that others would be impressed to meet.
She's not in church on Sundays
Stephanie does not attend church or follow traditional religious practices.
She walks the street
Stephanie spends time outside and is not confined to one particular space or activity.
They say that only money
There is a belief that the only thing that can make Stephanie happy is money.
Can make this creature smile
People view Stephanie as a sort of creature or monster, and believe that only material possessions can bring her joy.
And whatever she may give you
If Stephanie gives you something, it's only a temporary loan or rental.
Is rented for a while
Stephanie's generosity is not genuine, and the things she gives come with strings attached.
She's analyzed in magazines
Stephanie is scrutinized and examined by popular media.
They say her greed will make her die
Some believe that Stephanie's desire for material wealth will eventually lead to her downfall.
She's criticized by most it seems
The general public is not very kind to Stephanie and often judges her harshly.
Especially those whom she's seen cry
People that Stephanie has encountered during their difficult times seem to hold a greater grudge against her.
When city dawn is breaking
In the early morning hours, as the sun starts to rise.
She comes home silently
Stephanie returns home quietly, without making a fuss.
And though it's sleep I'm faking
Although Nick is pretending to be asleep, he is still aware of Stephanie's presence.
She just laughs at me
Stephanie finds Nick's behavior amusing.
And she comes to me so softly
Despite her outer toughness, Stephanie is gentle and tender with Nick.
Starling with a broken wing
Stephanie has a vulnerability that makes her fragile, like a bird with a damaged wing.
And she speaks her love in silence
Stephanie expresses her love and affection without words or actions.
She's a gentle thing
Overall, Stephanie is a kind and tender person, despite the negative perceptions that others may have of her.
Contributed by Peyton E. Suggest a correction in the comments below.