"New York... when civilization falls apart, remember, we were way ahead of you"

In this quote, David Letterman is making a funny observation about the city of New York. He is suggesting that in times of chaos and condition, New York has actually always been a step ahead of other cities. This could be translated as a nod to the durability and versatility of New Yorkers, who have faced numerous obstacles throughout history. It could also be seen as a spirited jab at the city's credibility for being hectic and always on the cutting edge. In general, Letterman's words communicate a sense of pride and admiration for the city and its people, even in the face of prospective catastrophe.