Smalltown

Lou Reed's song 'Smalltown' delves into the stifling and often oppressive experience of growing up in a small, insular community. The repetitive nature of the lyrics emphasizes the monotony and predictability of life in such a place. Reed paints a vivid picture of the struggles faced by those who feel out of place or different, highlighting the lack of opportunities and the judgmental attitudes that can pervade small-town life. The refrain 'When you're growing up in a small town' serves as a constant reminder of the inescapable nature of this environment.

Reed uses powerful imagery and references to famous artists like Picasso, Michelangelo, and Dali to underscore the feeling of being trapped in mediocrity. He contrasts the greatness of these artists with the mundane reality of his own life, suggesting that true artistic genius cannot emerge from a place like Pittsburgh. This sentiment is further reinforced by the line 'If art is the tip of the iceberg, I'm the part sinking below,' which conveys a sense of hopelessness and the fear of never achieving greatness.

The song also touches on themes of identity and self-acceptance. Reed describes himself as 'bad skin, bad eyes, gay and fatty,' highlighting the harsh scrutiny and judgment he faces in his small town. The desire to escape to a place like New York City, where he can be free from these judgments, is a recurring theme. The line 'If they stare let them stare in New York City' encapsulates this longing for anonymity and acceptance. Ultimately, 'Smalltown' is a poignant exploration of the desire to break free from the constraints of one's environment and find a place where one can truly belong.