Please Turn

Little Dragon's 'Please Turn' delves into the themes of illusion, escapism, and the superficial nature of glamour. The song opens with vivid imagery of indulgence and luxury, such as picking cherries, taking pills, and running with the steam. These lines suggest a life of excess and artificial pleasure, where love is described as 'make believe,' indicating a sense of disillusionment with genuine emotional connections. The mention of 'swinging branches by your mansion' and 'posing leopard skin by the pool' further emphasizes the opulent yet hollow lifestyle being portrayed.

The chorus, with its plea to 'pull the string now' and 'turn the winds all round and round,' can be interpreted as a desire to change the current state of affairs or to escape from the cyclical nature of this superficial existence. The reference to diamonds that 'don't lift up' and colors that 'shift and cut' symbolizes the fleeting and deceptive nature of material wealth and beauty. These elements are not as uplifting or fulfilling as they might appear, highlighting the emptiness that often accompanies a life focused on external appearances.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics shift to a more introspective tone, addressing the pressure of maintaining this facade. The protagonist is 'staring down at wondering faces who want your place,' indicating the constant scrutiny and competition in this glamorous world. Despite this, there is a sense of yearning for something more real and meaningful, as expressed in the lines 'you take me to that unreal place that I had never known.' The song concludes with a plea, 'Please! Turn!' which can be seen as a cry for transformation or a return to authenticity. Little Dragon's unique blend of electronic and soulful sounds complements the lyrical content, creating a haunting yet captivating exploration of the illusions of glamour and the desire for genuine connection.