Murakami

Made In Heights' song 'Murakami' is a lyrical exploration of the blurred lines between reality and imagination, drawing inspiration from the surreal and often whimsical worlds created by Japanese author Haruki Murakami. The song opens with the protagonist experiencing a sensory overload, hearing bells, wind, and a song in their heart, which sets the tone for a journey through a dreamlike state. The mention of 'tenderness moving all things' and 'a poltergeist in the streets' suggests a world where emotions and supernatural elements intertwine, creating a sense of wonder and confusion.

The lyrics reference cultural icons like Billy (possibly Billy Joel) and Kurt Vonnegut, indicating a longing for the past and the comfort found in familiar art and literature. The protagonist reminisces about the 'silly rush' they used to get from these experiences, highlighting a sense of nostalgia and the power of art to transport us to different realms. The repeated lines 'Cause you really hold me down like that' and 'Like the universe is singing a song' suggest a deep connection with someone or something that grounds the protagonist, even as they navigate the surreal landscape of their thoughts.

As the song progresses, the protagonist grapples with the distinction between reality and dreams, questioning whether their experiences are genuine or figments of their imagination. The lines 'What's the difference if it's real or a dream' and 'Imagination playing tricks on me' encapsulate this internal struggle. The song's narrative becomes increasingly fragmented, reflecting the protagonist's disorientation and the fluid nature of their reality. This theme is further emphasized by the mention of 'showing up in the future like I've been here before,' suggesting a cyclical or déjà vu-like experience. Ultimately, 'Murakami' captures the essence of navigating a world where the boundaries between the real and the imagined are constantly shifting, much like the works of the author it references.