Pretty pimpin

Kurt Vile's 'Pretty Pimpin' delves into the disorienting experience of self-recognition and the existential crisis that often accompanies it. The song opens with the protagonist waking up and failing to recognize himself in the mirror, a metaphor for the disconnection between one's self-perception and reality. This theme is reinforced by the repetitive nature of the lyrics, where days blend into each other, symbolizing the monotony and confusion of daily life. The act of brushing 'some stranger’s teeth' and feeling 'weightless' further emphasizes the protagonist's detachment from his own identity.

The chorus, where the protagonist questions the 'stupid clown blocking the bathroom sink,' serves as a moment of self-reflection and critique. This 'clown' represents the facade or the persona that the protagonist feels trapped in, unable to reconcile it with his true self. The line 'All he ever wanted was to be someone in life that was just like' juxtaposes the desire for authenticity with the societal pressure to conform. The protagonist's wish to 'just have fun' and 'live my life like a son of a gun' highlights the internal conflict between societal expectations and personal desires.

Kurt Vile's laid-back, almost nonchalant delivery adds a layer of irony to the song. Despite the heavy themes of identity and existential dread, the casual tone suggests a resignation to the absurdity of life. The repetition of waking up and not recognizing oneself underscores the cyclical nature of this existential struggle. The phrase 'pretty pimpin' itself is a sarcastic nod to the superficial aspects of identity, suggesting that even when we dress ourselves up, we might still feel like strangers in our own skin. This song resonates with anyone who has ever felt lost in the routine of life, questioning their place and purpose in the world.