Mood Ring

Lorde's song "Mood Ring" delves into the complexities of modern emotional states and the often superficial attempts to manage them. The lyrics paint a picture of someone struggling to understand and stabilize their emotions, using various new-age and wellness practices as a means of coping. The mood ring, a 1970s novelty item that changes color based on the wearer's supposed emotional state, serves as a metaphor for the singer's quest for emotional clarity. Despite these efforts, the singer feels disconnected and unable to truly grasp their feelings, as indicated by the recurring line, "I can't feel a thing."

The song also reflects on the nostalgia for simpler times, specifically the early 2000s, which seem distant and unattainable. This longing for the past is juxtaposed with the present-day obsession with wellness trends, such as sun salutations, meditation, and crystal cleansing. These practices, while popular, are portrayed as somewhat hollow and ineffective in providing genuine emotional relief. The mention of "Pluto in Scorpio generation" hints at the astrological belief that this generation is marked by intense emotional experiences and transformation, further emphasizing the song's theme of emotional struggle.

Lorde's lyrics also touch on the societal pressures faced by young women, who are often encouraged to seek happiness and fulfillment through external means. The line "All the sad girls sing" suggests a collective experience of emotional turmoil, yet the prescribed solutions—vitamins, celebrity news, and Eastern retreats—fail to address the root causes of their distress. The song ultimately captures the sense of floating away, both literally and metaphorically, as the singer searches for a place or state of being where they can find peace and reassurance.