Ride Into The Sun

The Velvet Underground's 'Ride Into The Sun' captures the yearning for escape and the search for a better place. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of dissatisfaction with urban life, where the city is depicted as a place that can be both beautiful and ugly, depending on one's state of mind. The repeated desire to 'ride into the sun' symbolizes a quest for freedom, peace, and a fresh start away from the constraints and weariness of city living.

The song's imagery of the city as a 'flower made out of clay' suggests that while the city may appear attractive, it is ultimately fragile and perhaps deceptive. This metaphor highlights the superficial allure of urban life, which can quickly crumble under the weight of loneliness and self-pity. The contrast between the city's beauty and ugliness underscores the duality of urban existence, where one's perception can shift dramatically based on their emotional state.

The Velvet Underground, known for their avant-garde approach to music, often explored themes of alienation and the darker sides of human experience. 'Ride Into The Sun' fits within this context, offering a poignant commentary on the struggles of city life and the universal desire to find a place where one can truly belong. The repetition of 'Is hard to live in the city' serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who feel trapped in an environment that no longer serves their well-being.