Why Did Sting Write "Englishman in New York"? A Tale of Tea and Taxis
So, you're wondering why a perfectly good Englishman like Sting would swap the quaint charm of the British countryside for the concrete jungle of New York City and then immortalize the experience in a song? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into a tale as gripping as a good cuppa.
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| Why Did Sting Write Englishman In New York |
The Man Behind the Music
Let's talk about Quentin Crisp. This guy was a legend. Think Oscar Wilde with a touch of Dorothy Parker, but with a life story that would make a soap opera blush. He was openly gay in a time when being gay was basically a criminal offense, and he moved to New York in his 80s. Now that’s what you call living on the edge!
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Sting met Quentin and was completely blown away by his wit, his courage, and his sheer audacity. He saw a man who was completely unapologetic about who he was, and that resonated with Sting on a deep level.
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A Song is Born
"Englishman in New York" is basically Sting's ode to Quentin. It's a celebration of individuality, of standing out from the crowd, of being true to yourself no matter what the world throws at you. It's also a cheeky commentary on the cultural differences between the UK and the US – you know, like tea versus coffee, and queuing versus pushing.
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
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The song isn't just about Quentin, though. It's also about Sting's own experiences as a fish out of water in the Big Apple. He was trying to find his place in a city that never sleeps, while still holding onto his British roots.
QuickTip: Read again with fresh eyes.
The Lyrics: A Deeper Dive
Let’s break down a few lines:
- "I don't drink coffee, I take tea, my dear": This is a classic example of Britishness versus Americanness. Tea is a staple of British culture, while coffee is more of an American thing.
- "I will survive, if that's what you want": This line is a nod to Gloria Gaynor's iconic disco anthem. It's a defiant statement of survival and resilience.
- "I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien": This line captures the feeling of being an outsider in a new place.
How to Appreciate "Englishman in New York"
- How to understand the cultural references: Do some research on British and American culture. It will add a whole new layer of meaning to the song.
- How to appreciate the lyrics: Pay attention to the wordplay and the imagery. Sting is a master of language.
- How to connect with the song on a personal level: Everyone feels like an outsider at some point in their lives. Let the song be your anthem.
- How to enjoy the music: The melody is catchy, and the arrangement is perfect. So just sit back, relax, and let the music wash over you.
- How to impress your friends: Drop some knowledge about Quentin Crisp and the inspiration behind the song. You'll be the life of the party.
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