Elegantly Wasted
INXS
The Allure of a Hollow Hedonism
The song "Elegantly Wasted" by INXS delves into the theme of disillusionment with the pursuit of pleasure and the superficial aspects of life. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is aware of the emptiness that can accompany a lifestyle focused solely on materialism and external appearances. The phrase 'elegantly wasted' itself is a poignant oxymoron, suggesting a graceful yet futile consumption of life's offerings, where the elegance masks an underlying sense of waste and dissatisfaction.
The repeated references to 'the good life' in the song suggest a yearning for a life of ease and pleasure. However, the acknowledgment that 'this ain't, the good life' indicates a recognition that the life they are leading is not as fulfilling as it appears. The song's protagonist seems to be caught in a cycle of seeking happiness through external means, yet remains acutely aware of the hollowness of such pursuits. The call to 'make it rain like we used to' can be interpreted as a desire to return to a time when things felt more genuine and satisfying, before becoming jaded by the world.
INXS, known for their rock and new wave influences, often explored themes of desire, excess, and the human condition in their music. "Elegantly Wasted" is a reflection of the band's ability to combine catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics. The song resonates with listeners who have experienced the disillusionment that can come with chasing after what society deems as successful or desirable, only to find that it lacks true substance.
