Alien

Beach House's song 'Alien' delves into themes of isolation, disconnection, and the ephemeral nature of human experiences. The opening lines, 'City light, White on white, In your eyes,' paint a picture of urban alienation, where the bright lights of the city fail to bring warmth or connection. The repeated use of the word 'alien' suggests a feeling of being out of place or disconnected from one's surroundings and even oneself. This sense of alienation is further emphasized by the imagery of 'paper dolls on the wires, set on fire,' symbolizing fragile connections that are easily destroyed.

The chorus, with its repeated apologies and the phrase 'I get carried away,' reflects a sense of regret and helplessness. The protagonist seems to be caught in a cycle of longing and disillusionment, as seen in the lines 'Up on the movie screen, Black beauty limousines for you.' This could be interpreted as a yearning for an idealized, glamorous life that remains out of reach. The mention of 'fake flowers to the grave' adds a layer of melancholy, suggesting that these dreams and aspirations are ultimately hollow and unfulfilling.

The song's ethereal and dreamlike quality is enhanced by its repetitive structure and haunting melodies, characteristic of Beach House's musical style. The lyrics evoke a sense of drifting through life, unable to grasp or hold onto anything meaningful. The recurring theme of 'helpless and glimmering' encapsulates the fragile beauty and fleeting nature of human experiences, leaving the listener with a poignant sense of longing and introspection.