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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.