It's Hard To Be A Saint In The City

David Bowie's rendition of 'It's Hard To Be A Saint In The City' delves into the gritty reality of urban life, capturing the essence of a young man's struggle to maintain his integrity amidst the chaos and temptations of the city. The protagonist, with his tough exterior and charismatic presence, navigates the streets with a sense of bravado, likening himself to iconic figures like Brando and Casanova. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative that explores the dichotomy between outward appearances and inner turmoil.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the urban landscape, populated by colorful characters such as the 'cripple on the corner' and the 'gasoline boys down-town.' These figures represent the marginalized and the rough-edged inhabitants of the city, highlighting the harsh realities and the survival instincts required to thrive in such an environment. The protagonist's encounters with these characters underscore the difficulty of maintaining one's moral compass in a world where grit and grime are the norms.

The song also touches on themes of temptation and moral ambiguity, as seen in the lines where the 'Devil appeared to me like Jesus through the steam in the street.' This metaphor suggests the constant presence of moral challenges and the thin line between right and wrong. The protagonist's struggle is further emphasized by the recurring refrain, 'It's so hard to be a saint in the city,' which encapsulates the central conflict of trying to uphold one's values in a setting that often rewards the opposite. Bowie's delivery of these lyrics adds a layer of raw emotion, making the listener feel the weight of the protagonist's journey.