Lyrics
And now I know
Realization and understanding
Spanish Harlem are not just pretty words to say
Recognition that "Spanish Harlem" holds deeper significance beyond being pretty words, implying a newfound understanding
I thought I knew
Initial belief followed by a change in perspective
but now I know that rose trees never grow in New York City
Metaphorical statement suggesting challenges and obstacles in an unlikely place
Until you've seen this trash can dream come true
Expressing the realization of dreams, even those considered undesirable or unconventional
you stand at the edge while people run you through
Being at a vulnerable point while others criticize or harm
And I thank the Lord there's people out there like you
Gratitude for supportive people in difficult times
I thank the Lord there's people out there like you
Reiteration of gratitude for supportive individuals
While Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters
Reference to iconic figures, symbolizing a mix of high and low culture
sons of bankers, sons of lawyers
Highlighting diverse backgrounds, suggesting social contrasts
turn around and say, ‘good morning to the night’
A greeting that contrasts with the realities faced by different social classes
For unless they see the sky
Recognition of a different perspective or privilege
but they can't and that is why
Acknowledgment of limited understanding due to societal constraints
they know not if it's dark outside or light
Commentary on the ignorance of societal issues by certain privileged groups
This Broadway's got
Description of Broadway with its diversity of experiences
it's got a lot of songs to sing
Recognition of the variety of stories and perspectives in life
and If I knew the tunes I might join in
Desire to participate in life's experiences if understood
I'll go my way alone
Emphasis on independence and self-reliance
I’ll grow my own, my own seeds shall be sown
Commitment to personal growth and development
in New York City
Reiteration of challenges faced in New York City
Subway's no way for a good man to go down
Commentary on the difficulties of using the subway for a person of moral standing
Rich man can ride and the hobo he can drown
Contrast between the ease of travel for the rich and the struggles of the homeless
And I thank the Lord for the people I have found
Gratitude for finding supportive people in life
I thank the Lord for the people I have found
Reiteration of gratitude for the positive influences encountered
While Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters
Reintroduction of the contrasting figures, Mona Lisas, and Mad Hatters
sons of bankers, sons of lawyers
Reiteration of social diversity and backgrounds
turn around and say, ‘good morning to the night’
Repetition of the ironic greeting that contradicts the reality faced by some
For unless they see the sky
Recognition of a limited view due to societal constraints
but they can't and that is why
Emphasis on the ignorance of certain privileged groups
they know not if it's dark outside or light
Repetition of the lack of awareness regarding external conditions
They know not if it's dark outside or light
Reiteration of the obliviousness to external realities
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