Happiness By The Kilowatt

Alexisonfire's 'Happiness By The Kilowatt' delves into the disillusionment that often accompanies the pursuit of happiness. The song opens with a seemingly optimistic view of continuous happiness, but quickly reveals a sense of dissatisfaction. The protagonist imagines that with the right external conditions—drapes, paints, frames—happiness could be achieved. This reflects a common belief that material possessions and perfect surroundings can lead to contentment. However, the repeated line 'What a great day to spend indoors' hints at a deeper sense of isolation and confinement, suggesting that true happiness cannot be found in superficial changes.

The chorus, with its repetitive 'Wake, wake up,' serves as a jarring reminder to the protagonist to snap out of their delusion. The imagery of 'a hail of sparks and a tangle of wires' symbolizes chaos and malfunction, indicating that something has gone terribly wrong. This could be interpreted as the moment of realization that the pursuit of material happiness is futile. The physical symptoms described—aching lungs, feeling cold, a sick heart—further emphasize the emotional and physical toll of this disillusionment.

The song's climax questions whether this state of being was what the protagonist had hoped for. The repeated question 'Was this what we hoped for?' underscores a profound sense of regret and unmet expectations. Alexisonfire uses this song to explore the theme of existential angst and the hollow nature of materialistic pursuits. The band's post-hardcore style, characterized by intense vocals and powerful instrumentals, amplifies the emotional weight of the lyrics, making 'Happiness By The Kilowatt' a poignant commentary on the human condition.