The song "NYC Man" by Joseph Arthur is about a person who is independent and self-assured, embodying the spirit of a New York City man. The lyrics suggest that if someone were to break the singer's heart, it would only lead to trouble. The line "If you accidentally crush it on the ides of March" references the betrayal of Julius Caesar on March 15th, known as the ides of March. The singer expresses a preference for honesty and straightforwardness in a relationship, rather than someone making up lies to protect their feelings. They emphasize that they are a New York City man, implying that they are strong-willed and won't tolerate unnecessary drama. The lyrics mention various characters from Shakespeare's plays, such as Brutus, Caesar, Lady Macbeth, Macbeth, Ophelia, Desdemona, and Hamlet. These references suggest that the singer sees themselves as an observer of tragic events rather than being caught up in them, similar to the character of King Lear. They state that they can easily move on from a relationship with the simple word "go," without any regrets or attachment. The song also touches on the symbolism of change and transformation. The line "The stars have shut their eyes up tight, the earth has changed its course" suggests a shift in circumstances or the end of a chapter. The mention of a clock releasing moths and a comparison to a black knight and a white jeweled horse alludes to unusual or unexpected situations. In the end, the singer reaffirms their love for New York City and their ability to quickly move on from relationships. They state that they can be gone in an instant, leaving no trace behind. The final lines "Grain of sand, I love you, blink your eyes, I am gone" further emphasize their fleeting nature and unwillingness to be tied down. Overall, "NYC Man" is a song that portrays a confident and independent individual who is unafraid to let go of relationships and embrace the transient nature of life in the city.
