When I was 11 I went to New York with my mum, dad and sister. I felt like I was on a movie set the whole time and loved being over there on Independence Day.

In this quote, Amy Macdonald reflects on a formative experience from her childhood when she visited New York with her mum, dad, and sister. At the age of 11, she recalls feeling as though she were on a movie set, emphasizing the excitement and awe she felt in such a vibrant, bustling city. The sense of wonder was heightened by the time of year—Independence Day—when the city's atmosphere was filled with celebration and patriotism, making the experience even more memorable.

Macdonald's description of the trip conveys how the unique energy of New York and the Independence Day festivities left a lasting impression on her. The comparison to a movie set suggests that everything seemed larger than life, like something out of a film, which was both thrilling and inspiring. Her perspective shows how powerful and immersive travel experiences can be, especially when they involve a mix of personal connection and cultural significance.

The origin of this quote lies in Macdonald’s childhood memories and the influence that the Independence Day celebrations had on her perception of New York. As someone who later became a musician, this experience could have contributed to her appreciation for the vibrancy and drama of cities, which she might reflect upon in her work. The excitement of being in New York during a significant cultural event likely made her feel connected to the larger world around her.

In essence, the quote highlights how a simple trip to New York during Independence Day became a transformative experience for Macdonald. It emphasizes the magic of traveling, especially to iconic places like New York, and how such moments can stay with a person long after the trip ends.