Neon

John Mayer's song 'Neon' from his album 'Room for Squares' released in 2001, is a poetic exploration of a fleeting and elusive relationship, much like the ephemeral glow of neon lights in the night sky. The lyrics paint a picture of a woman who is vibrant and constantly on the move, compared to the buzzing and transient light of neon signs. Mayer uses the imagery of city lights and nightlife to describe her allure and the way she captivates those around her, yet remains out of reach.

The chorus, 'She's always buzzing just like neon, neon,' suggests that the woman is electric, alive, and dynamic, but also potentially dangerous in her intensity. The repetition of 'neon' emphasizes her brilliance and the hypnotic effect she has on the narrator. The song reflects the struggle of wanting to be close to someone who is inherently untamable and free-spirited. Mayer acknowledges his inability to 'be her angel' or to 'hold her down,' indicating a resignation to the fact that she is a force of nature, not meant to be contained or controlled.

The song's bridge, 'Who knows how long, how long, how long she can go before she burns away,' introduces a sense of foreboding. It suggests that her lifestyle, while dazzling, may not be sustainable, and there's an underlying fear that she might eventually 'burn away' or fade out. This adds a layer of depth to the song, as it touches on the idea that the brightest flames might burn the fastest, and the most vibrant lives may be the most vulnerable to burning out.