Ennui

Lou Reed's song "Ennui" delves into the existential weariness and disillusionment that often accompany the passage of time. The term 'ennui' itself refers to a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of excitement or purpose, which sets the tone for the entire song. Reed's lyrics paint a picture of someone grappling with the harsh realities of aging, lost ideals, and the futility of certain pursuits. The opening lines, "All the things you said - you thought I was dead / Everything made me feel aware," suggest a confrontation with past beliefs and the stark realization of their impact on the present self.

The song also touches on the theme of superficiality and the emptiness of material pursuits. Lines like "You're the kind of person that I could do without / And certain kinds of money would make you see what it's all about" critique the shallow nature of relationships and the corrupting influence of money. Reed's cynical tone underscores a sense of betrayal and disappointment, as he reflects on the people and values that have let him down over time.

Furthermore, Reed's reference to old lovers and their tragic ends, "All of the things that your old lover said / Look at them, they jump out of windows / And now they're just dead," adds a dark, almost nihilistic layer to the song. It suggests that the promises and dreams of youth often lead to despair and disillusionment. The closing lines, "Pick up the pieces that make up your life / Maybe some day you'll have a wife and them alimony," offer a bleak outlook on the future, hinting at the cyclical nature of life's disappointments. Through "Ennui," Lou Reed masterfully captures the essence of existential dread and the inevitable disillusionments that come with age and experience.