Black Treacle

Arctic Monkeys' song 'Black Treacle' is a rich tapestry of metaphors and vivid imagery that paints a picture of contemplation and the complexities of desire. The lyrics suggest a sense of disillusionment and the bittersweet nature of getting what you want, only to realize it's not what you truly desire. The opening lines set a dreamy, almost surreal scene with 'belly button piercings in the sky at night,' indicating that things are not quite as they seem.

The chorus uses the metaphor of the sky looking 'more like black treacle than tar,' which could symbolize a situation that is sticky and difficult to navigate, much like the substance black treacle itself. This imagery is juxtaposed with the stars hiding, perhaps a metaphor for lost hope or the dimming of light in one's life. The song questions the value of persistence and whether the ends justify the means, as seen in lines like 'Does it help you stay up late? Does it help you concentrate?' and 'you talk the talk alrite, but do you walk the walk or catch the train?'

The song also touches on the theme of growth and wisdom, or the lack thereof, with the singer feeling 'out of place' and 'not getting any wiser.' The reference to the 'Sundance Kid behind a synthesiser' could imply a feeling of being an outlaw or outsider in a modern, possibly inauthentic world. The attempt to 'pack away your laugh' suggests trying to hold onto a moment of joy, but finding it elusive when it's most needed. Overall, 'Black Treacle' is a contemplative piece that explores the ironies of life and the sometimes sticky aftermath of chasing what we think we want.