"These Streets Are Still Home To Me (Version 1)" by Editors is a song about addiction, love, and the struggle to find meaning in life. The lyrics convey a sense of comfort and familiarity in the streets, even amidst the chaos and destruction caused by addiction. The line "I like it when you cry, you can see how much you care" suggests an unconventional view on emotions, indicating that the singer finds solace in his loved one's vulnerability. It also speaks to the depth of their connection. The mention of addiction filling the streets acknowledges the prevalent issue of substance abuse in society. Despite the negative connotation, the singer emphasizes that these streets, which represent his surroundings, are still his home. This could indicate a level of acceptance or resignation to the realities of his environment. The chorus, "If this was easy, what a way we degrade. Temptation and angels, we are meant to fade," touches on the complexities and challenges of life. The contrast between "temptation" and "angels" symbolizes the constant struggle between destructive impulses and the desire to do what is right. The phrase "we are meant to fade" suggests a belief in the transient nature of life and the inevitability of change. The following lines express the singer's personal beliefs, stating that he doesn't believe in fate or God but does believe in love and what they have together. This could imply that despite questioning larger philosophical concepts, he finds solace and purpose in his relationship. The repeated chorus further emphasizes the theme of degradation and transience, but it also brings a sense of familiarity and belonging with the line "Welcome home friend, there is light in the shade." This phrase suggests that even in difficult and dark times, there is still hope and comfort to be found. Overall, "These Streets Are Still Home To Me (Version 1)" explores themes of addiction, love, belief, and the struggle to find meaning within a chaotic world. It contemplates the dichotomy of human nature and the desire for connection amidst the challenges of life.
