Unpublished Critics

Australian Crawl's song 'Unpublished Critics' delves into the inner world of a shy, romantic individual who feels out of place in the social and musical scenes around him. The protagonist describes himself as a 'shy romantic with my eyes on the loose,' suggesting a sense of longing and a desire to connect, yet feeling constrained by his own shyness. The imagery of being 'in an overcoated way' and 'a poet in a garret' evokes a sense of isolation and introspection, typical of someone who feels more comfortable in their own thoughts than in the bustling world around them.

The chorus, with its repeated plea to 'get away,' underscores the protagonist's desire to escape from the pressures and judgments of those around him. The line 'I don't wanna know what's going round here' reflects a sense of disillusionment and a wish to distance himself from the superficiality he perceives in his surroundings. This sentiment is further emphasized by his disdain for the 'singer in the band' who 'sweat on a pose' and thinks he can belittle others because of his success. The protagonist's frustration with the superficiality and arrogance of the music scene is palpable.

The song also touches on themes of self-doubt and a search for identity. The protagonist mentions reading biographies and having a 'death-wish that I can't explain,' hinting at a deeper existential struggle. His efforts to cultivate 'petulance' and the mention of an 'urchin' taking his name suggest a conflict between his true self and the persona he feels pressured to adopt. 'Unpublished Critics' captures the tension between individuality and societal expectations, making it a poignant reflection on the struggles of finding one's place in the world.