Meaning of "Heart of Lothian" by Marillion

The lyrics of "Heart of Lothian" by Marillion seem to depict the struggles of a young individual caught up in the fast-paced, materialistic world of the city while yearning for something more meaningful. The reference to being a wide boy, born with a heart of Lothian, suggests a sense of rebellion against societal norms and expectations. The protagonist sees through the superficiality of their surroundings, symbolized by the tower blocks, and desires a more authentic existence. The mention of anarchy smiling in the Royal Mile and the pressure to conform to the wide boy lifestyle, with its emphasis on image and success, highlights a conflict between staying true to oneself and succumbing to external pressures. The longing for the watering hole and the man in the mirror with sad eyes point to a deeper dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs and a desire for change or escape.