Meaning of "Exile on Princes Street" by Marillion

The song "Exile on Princes Street" by Marillion delves into a deep sense of disconnectedness and displacement experienced by the speaker within their own city. As they navigate the streets and observe the industrialization and environmental degradation taking place, the speaker reflects on the loss of identity and the erosion of pride that comes with it. The mention of "black, black oil" symbolizes the negative impact of industrial development on the environment and society, leading to a loss of unity and a sense of belonging. The repetition of the phrase "internal exile" highlights the internal conflict and disconnection the speaker feels, torn between what could have been and what actually is. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of a city in flux, grappling with its past and striving for a cohesive identity amidst changes that threaten to erode it.