Lotus Eater

Foster The People's 'Lotus Eater' presents a critical perspective on the superficiality and emptiness of certain lifestyles, particularly those associated with Hollywood glamour. The lyrics depict a scene where the protagonist feels out of place and disconnected from the people around him, who are indulging in a lifestyle that he perceives as shallow. The mention of 'sparkling drink' and 'lipstick mess' paints a picture of a party scene that is both alluring and chaotic, while 'Hollywood philosophies' suggests a critique of the shallow values often propagated by celebrity culture.

The chorus, 'And I know you know I'm not the one / I'm sorry I was late, I didn't wanna come,' reflects the protagonist's reluctance to participate in this scene and his awareness that he does not fit in. The repeated lines 'I'm sorry I was late' and 'Next time I just won't come' indicate a desire to distance himself from this environment. The song's title, 'Lotus Eater,' alludes to the lotus-eaters in Greek mythology who lived in a state of forgetful bliss, which further emphasizes the theme of escapism and the dangers of losing oneself in hedonism.

The bridge of the song shifts to a more introspective tone, questioning why people struggle to appreciate what they have and always desire more. The line 'I know you'd rather have me fake it / But I'm not gonna make it' suggests a refusal to conform to the expectations of others and a desire for authenticity. Overall, 'Lotus Eater' is a commentary on the hollowness of certain social scenes and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst pressures to conform.