Englishman In New York

Sting's 'Englishman In New York' is a song that captures the essence of feeling out of place yet maintaining one's identity in a foreign land. The lyrics describe the daily life and observations of an Englishman who finds himself in the bustling city of New York. The song's protagonist clings to his British habits, such as drinking tea and preferring his toast done on one side, which sets him apart in the American metropolis. His accent and mannerisms mark him as an outsider, an 'alien,' but he embraces this status with a sense of pride and legal legitimacy.

The chorus, 'I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien, I'm an Englishman in New York,' plays on the dual meaning of 'alien' as both a foreigner and an extraterrestrial, highlighting the sense of otherness the Englishman feels. However, the song also conveys a message of resilience and integrity. The repeated lines 'Be yourself no matter what they say' encourage maintaining one's individuality and values despite external pressures to conform. The song suggests that true strength lies in character and manners, not in aggression or material power.

Cultural references such as 'manners maketh man' and the emphasis on qualities like modesty, propriety, gentleness, and sobriety reflect a critique of the brashness often associated with urban life. The song's protagonist embodies the ideal of the 'gentleman'—someone who faces adversity with grace and does not resort to violence or rudeness. 'Englishman In New York' is not just about the experience of being a foreigner; it's a commentary on societal values and the importance of maintaining one's identity and ethics in a world that can be overwhelming and challenging.