Although the song is written about New York, I think that it relates to others slightly differently. To me its about change and knowing that changes are happening all around you and you can't just stay in the same place all your life, hence "it's easier to leave than to be left behind". You have to go through many changes, some which are painful. Michael Stipe is using New York in this song because its something he loves dearly. Beautiful song, one of R.E.M's best.
Although the song is written about New York, I think that it relates to others slightly differently. To me its about change and knowing that changes are happening all around you and you can't just stay in the same place all your life, hence "it's easier to leave than to be left behind". You have to go through many changes, some which are painful. Michael Stipe is using New York in this song because its something he loves dearly. Beautiful song, one of R.E.M's best.