Ulysses

Franz Ferdinand's song 'Ulysses' is a modern-day exploration of escapism and self-discovery, drawing inspiration from the ancient Greek hero Ulysses (Odysseus). The lyrics paint a picture of a night filled with hedonistic pursuits, where the protagonist seeks to break free from the monotony of everyday life. The repeated invitation to 'get high' symbolizes a desire to transcend reality and find a new way of experiencing the world, much like Ulysses' epic journey home in Homer's 'Odyssey'.

The song's protagonist grapples with feelings of boredom and restlessness, as evidenced by lines like 'Well I'm bored, I'm bored / Come on, let's get high'. This sense of ennui drives the character to seek out new experiences, even if they are fleeting and potentially destructive. The reference to 'Lexo' and the mention of walking 'twenty-five miles' suggest a journey or quest, albeit one that is more about the pursuit of pleasure than a heroic adventure. The chorus, with its repeated declaration of having 'found a new way', underscores the protagonist's yearning for change and reinvention.

The song also delves into themes of identity and transformation. The question 'Am I Ulysses?' and the subsequent answer 'No, but you are now boy' highlight the fluidity of the protagonist's sense of self. This transformation is further emphasized by the line 'You're never going home', suggesting a point of no return in the character's journey. The repeated denial of being Ulysses at the end of the song ('You're not Ulysses') serves as a reminder that while the protagonist may seek to emulate the hero's journey, their path is ultimately their own, marked by the unique challenges and experiences of modern life.