New York City

Current Joys' song "New York City" delves into themes of identity, belonging, and existential angst. The lyrics paint a picture of someone grappling with their sense of self and place in the world. The opening lines, "I never thought that I'd be here / I never thought I'd have short hair," suggest a sense of surprise and disorientation with the current state of their life. This is further emphasized by the line, "I never grew up in my head / Oh my heart and soul are dead," indicating a feeling of emotional stagnation and disconnection from their true self.

The recurring mention of New York City serves as a metaphor for a place of belonging and identity. The protagonist feels isolated and alone in their mind, but they believe that they would find solace and a sense of belonging in New York City. The repetition of the phrase "In New York City" underscores this longing and idealization of the city as a place where they can truly be themselves. This yearning for a different place to escape their current reality is a common theme in music and literature, symbolizing the search for a new beginning or a place where one can feel at home.

The lines "I want to cry in your hands / I want to die in your hands" reveal a deep vulnerability and a desire for connection. The protagonist is struggling with self-hatred and a sense of failure, as indicated by the line "Because I hate what I've become." The idea of running away to New York City is not just about finding a new place, but also about escaping from their current self and the pain they are experiencing. This song captures the universal human experience of feeling lost and searching for a place where one can truly belong and be understood.