Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “P.S. New York Is Burning” by Jawbreaker
The song “P.S. New York Is Burning” by Jawbreaker paints a vivid and inevitable image of the apocalyptic fate of New York City. It speaks of a world where the death and destruction of the city have become a certainty, and the protagonist must accept this fact, allowing the chorus to become his mantra.
The song begins with the protagonist expressing his disbelief in the impending destruction of the city. He remarks that this kind of thing can’t possibly happen, dancing with the idea of a happy and peaceful New York. However, he quickly realizes that he is not in control of destiny, and New York will soon be reduced to rubble.
The chorus of the song speaks of the inevitability of the destruction of the city. The protagonist laments that New York is burning, pouring his heartache into a warning that ends in a desperate plea to someone, possibly a higher power, to save New York and the people in it.
The protagonist’s sense of powerlessness and utter despair drives the remainder of the song. He narrates the story in which an entire generation is destroyed by the fire, and he can only watch in terror as he can’t stop this catastrophe.
The song ends with the protagonist telling himself that he will never forget all the lives taken away by the fire and never forget the pain of New York burning. He promises that he will carry this thought in his heart and keep fighting to save New York, no matter what.
Overall, the song “P.S. New York Is Burning” is a powerful reflection of the impossible sadness and helplessness that comes when one watches their city burn. Its message is one of acceptance, but also of resilience and hope as the protagonist still fights to save New York despite the odds and devastation.