Meaning: The quote "New York is not Mecca. It just smells like it" by Neil Simon is a humorous and satirical observation about the city of New York. Neil Simon, the renowned American playwright known for his witty and insightful commentary on urban life, captures the essence of New York City in a single, pithy sentence. In this quote, Simon cleverly compares New York to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, to emphasize the intensity and significance of New York's reputation, while also humorously acknowledging its less glamorous aspects.

New York City, often referred to as the "Big Apple" or "The City That Never Sleeps," is a bustling metropolis renowned for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and iconic landmarks. It is a global center for finance, fashion, media, art, and entertainment, drawing millions of visitors and aspiring residents from around the world. However, with its dense population, congested streets, and distinct urban aroma, New York is also known for its unique and occasionally pungent smells, hence the humorous comparison to Mecca.

The quote reflects the love-hate relationship that many people have with New York. It acknowledges the city's allure and magnetic pull, while also highlighting its less glamorous aspects. By likening the city to Mecca, Simon playfully suggests that New York holds a similarly revered status in the eyes of many, even if it is not a religious pilgrimage site. The comparison also serves as a commentary on the sensory experience of New York, acknowledging that the city's distinct smells are an integral part of its character.

Neil Simon's astute observation encapsulates the complexity and contradictions of New York City. It acknowledges the city's grandeur and cultural significance, while also acknowledging the less glamorous aspects that are often overlooked or romanticized. Through his witty and succinct turn of phrase, Simon invites us to consider the multifaceted nature of urban life and the ways in which cities like New York can simultaneously captivate and repel.

In conclusion, Neil Simon's quote "New York is not Mecca. It just smells like it" offers a lighthearted yet incisive commentary on the unique character of New York City. By drawing a humorous comparison to Mecca and its sacred status, Simon captures the intense allure and distinctive sensory experience of New York. This quote serves as a reminder that cities, like people, are complex and multifaceted, encompassing both grandeur and grit. It invites us to appreciate the idiosyncrasies of urban life and to find humor in the contradictions that make cities like New York so endlessly fascinating.