Meaning of "Spanish Harlem Incident" by Chris Whitley

The lyrics of "Spanish Harlem Incident" by Chris Whitley convey a sense of passion, desire, and mystery through the imagery of a gypsy woman. The gypsy woman symbolizes a force of nature that the speaker finds both alluring and terrifying. The speaker is drawn to her wild and untamed energy, as represented by her flaming feet and flashing diamond teeth, but he also feels lost and confused by her power over him. The gypsy woman represents a deeper longing for connection and understanding in life, and the speaker's desire to know if his interactions with her are real reflects a search for truth and authenticity. Overall, the song explores themes of longing, uncertainty, and the complexities of human relationships.