Meaning of "New York" by St. Vincent

The lyrics of "New York" convey a bittersweet longing for a lost love and the nostalgic pull of a familiar city. It explores the idea that a place can lose its meaning and essence when someone important is no longer there to share it with. The mention of specific locations like First Avenue and 8th Avenue emphasizes the personal connection between the narrator and their loved one, as if these places hold memories and significance that cannot be replicated anywhere else.

The repetition of the lines "I have lost a hero, I have lost a friend" suggests that the relationship with this person was deep and meaningful, and the loss is profound. Despite acknowledging the pain caused to their loved one, the narrator expresses a willingness to go through it all again for them. This highlights the complexity of love and the ability to forgive and reconcile even in the face of mistakes and hurt.

The mention of "our old crew" and "Astor" evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for a bygone era or a group of friends who have drifted away. The line "So if I trade our 'hood for some Hollywood" hints at the possibility of leaving the familiar and venturing into a new chapter, potentially leaving behind the memories associated with New York. However, the emphasis on the loved one being the only person in the city who would forgive them suggests that their bond is strong enough to withstand distance and change.

Overall, "New York" captures the melancholic yearning for a lost love and the enduring power of connection, even in the face of adversity and separation. It reflects the complexities and contradictions of relationships and the ever-present desire to hold onto someone who has profoundly impacted one's life.