Planet Health

Chairlift's song 'Planet Health' offers a satirical and surreal exploration of modern society's obsession with health and wellness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a fantastical place called 'Planet Health,' where the protagonist arrives in a state of well-being. This utopian world is filled with metaphors for various health and fitness regimes, such as the 'food pyramid' and the 'desert of vitamins,' symbolizing the often overwhelming and prescriptive nature of health advice.

The song delves into the protagonist's experiences on this planet, where they undergo transformations to align with societal standards of health. The 'desired heart rate' and 'mouth to resuscitate' suggest a mechanical approach to wellness, reducing human experiences to mere biological functions. The repeated refrain 'I am feeling great tonight' underscores a forced positivity, hinting at the pressure to constantly appear healthy and happy.

As the narrative progresses, the protagonist encounters different aspects of life, such as puberty and love, within the confines of this health-obsessed world. The 'garden of puberty' and 'forest of loves' are whimsical yet poignant metaphors for the natural stages of life, now regulated and sanitized. The song takes a darker turn when it addresses the fate of those who do not conform to the ideals of 'Planet Health.' The line 'They kick you off of planet health into a universe of cold' starkly contrasts the earlier imagery, highlighting the exclusion and isolation faced by those who are 'sick and sad and old.'

The recurring phrase 'Stop drop and roll' serves as a metaphor for the urgent need to address the metaphorical fires of societal pressures and unrealistic health standards. Chairlift's 'Planet Health' ultimately critiques the superficial and often dehumanizing aspects of the wellness industry, urging listeners to reconsider what it truly means to be healthy and well.