Artificial Nocturne

Metric's 'Artificial Nocturne' delves into the complexities of escapism and the struggle to reconcile one's inner turmoil with the expectations of the outside world. The song opens with a stark admission of the protagonist's flaws, setting a tone of raw honesty. The line 'I can't fake the daytime' suggests a profound difficulty in conforming to societal norms and the pressures of maintaining a facade of normalcy. Instead, the protagonist finds solace in the darkness, a metaphorical space where they can be their true self without judgment.

The concept of an 'artificial nocturne' is a powerful metaphor for creating a false sense of night or escape. This 'false light for the sun' represents the lengths to which one might go to avoid facing the harsh realities of the day. The nocturne, traditionally a musical composition inspired by the night, here becomes a symbol of an outsider's refuge, a place to nurse a broken heart away from the prying eyes of society. The repeated imagery of hiding in the back, like 'shadows in a stranger's dream,' further emphasizes the desire to remain unseen and untouched by the world's expectations.

The chorus brings a sense of empowerment amidst the darkness. The protagonist declares their ability to create and believe in their dreams, suggesting that even in their escape, there is a form of liberation. The plea for fate not to fail them underscores a hope for redemption or a better future, despite the current state of disarray. The song's repetition of the opening lines in the closing verse reinforces the cyclical nature of this struggle, highlighting the ongoing battle between the desire to escape and the need to face reality.