4th Of July

Galaxie 500's song "4th Of July" is a poignant exploration of loneliness, introspection, and the search for meaning. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with feelings of isolation and disconnection, even on a day typically associated with celebration and togetherness. The opening lines, where the narrator writes a poem on a dog biscuit only to have it ignored by the dog, set the tone for the song's theme of unreciprocated efforts and the futility of certain actions. This small, almost absurd act symbolizes the larger sense of being overlooked or misunderstood.

The mention of getting drunk and looking at the Empire State Building, which appears no bigger than a nickel, further emphasizes the narrator's sense of insignificance and detachment from the world around them. The Empire State Building, a symbol of grandeur and human achievement, is reduced to something trivial in the narrator's eyes, reflecting their diminished sense of self-worth and perspective. The recurring thought of needing to change their style or move away suggests a desire for transformation or escape from their current state of dissatisfaction.

The chorus, where the narrator finds solace in someone's smile, introduces a glimmer of hope amidst the melancholy. This smile represents a fleeting moment of connection and comfort, a brief respite from their pervasive sense of isolation. The decision to stay home on the Fourth of July and pull the shades to avoid seeing the sky underscores the narrator's withdrawal from the world and the festivities outside. The idea of having a 'Bed In' but forgetting to invite anyone highlights their deep-seated loneliness and the irony of seeking solidarity in solitude. Ultimately, the song captures the complex emotions of feeling out of place and yearning for change, while also finding small moments of solace in human connection.