On the streets

[ian2]

In its tough, often remorseless way, New York is a crucible for every manner of talent. Some of the talented young are swiftly defeated, and retreat into more ordinary lives. Others are shooting stars, here and gone. Those made of sterner stuff last longer, and it helps if they have lived on our streets.

I know we are not talking about streets in the literal sense. But I want to know the prepositions ON vs. IN in the same conext and what difference it makes to use different prepostions. Thanks a million.

[Tdol]

On- to me this is about experiencing life in New York, while 'in' would refer more directly to houses.

[ian2]

Originally Posted by Tdol

On- to me this is about experiencing life in New York, while 'in' would refer more directly to houses.

Does it imply the harsh side of life, not the easy life that New York is also famous for, at least for a group of poeple? Thank. Tdol.

[Naamplao]

Originally Posted by ian2

In its tough, often remorseless way, New York is a crucible for every manner of talent. Some of the talented young are swiftly defeated, and retreat into more ordinary lives. Others are shooting stars, here and gone. Those made of sterner stuff last longer, and it helps if they have lived on our streets.

I know we are not talking about streets in the literal sense. But I want to know the prepositions ON vs. IN in the same conext and what difference it makes to use different prepostions. Thanks a million.

In this context the difference would be that "lived on our streets" would imply they lived in normal houses while they were there. "lived in our streets" would imply being homeless to me.