Lyric discussion by trubador09 

Cover art for Manhattan lyrics by Sara Bareilles

Two people; he from New York, her from California. They have tried to live in New York as a couple, but she realizes it is time to call it quits. The difference of being from 2 states is not the issue. She loved New York, too. So, this is how much she loves him. She is willing to give up fabulous New York. She realizes it is for the best and loves him this much to let him go and find someone who he can build a life with in Manhattan. She will settle for the beach and anyone from California knows that ain't too bad either. But, she wants him to know while she is walking in the sand, she'll be thinking of fond memories of him and the love they shared.

Song Meaning