"As a New Yorker, I'm someone who lives on an island and looks across to America"

In this quote, Laurie Anderson is revealing her identity as a New Yorker and how it shapes her perspective on America. As a local of New York, she sees herself as residing on an island, physically separated from the remainder of the country. This geographical separation likewise represents a cultural and social divide, as New York is often seen as a hub of variety and progressivism compared to other parts of America. By mentioning that she "looks across" to America, Anderson is acknowledging this divide and highlighting the distinct point of view that being a New Yorker provides her.