Motion Sickness

Hot Chip's song 'Motion Sickness' delves into the disorienting and often overwhelming nature of contemporary existence. The repeated lines 'Remember when people thought the world was round?' and 'Remember when we both first felt the world is sound?' evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times when the world seemed more comprehensible and less chaotic. This longing for the past contrasts sharply with the present, where everything 'spins' and 'locks,' suggesting a world that is constantly in flux and difficult to grasp.

The metaphor of 'motion sickness' is central to the song, symbolizing the physical and emotional disorientation that comes with rapid changes and the relentless pace of modern life. The imagery of everything spinning 'on my head' and 'from my head' conveys a sense of being overwhelmed by external stimuli and internal thoughts. The mention of a 'compact disc' adds a layer of technological commentary, hinting at how digital media and constant connectivity contribute to this sense of dizziness and disconnection.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics shift to a more personal and intimate tone. The lines 'I am only turning out to you' and 'I am only felt and seen by you' suggest a deep, almost exclusive connection with another person amidst the chaos. This relationship becomes a grounding force, a way to navigate the spinning world. The final lines, 'A world we both take through no contact lens,' imply a shared reality that is experienced directly and authentically, without the mediation of technology. This intimate connection offers a sense of stability and meaning in an otherwise turbulent world.