Of Moons, Birds & Monsters

MGMT's 'Of Moons, Birds & Monsters' is a surreal exploration of existential themes, blending vivid imagery with abstract metaphors. The song opens with a question about cutting holes in the face of a moon base, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for self-sabotage or the disruption of one's own stability. The mention of temperature change in the 'cold black shadow' suggests the emotional consequences of such actions, hinting at feelings of isolation and desolation. The lyrics question whether the protagonist is angry at their own circumstances or passively waiting for an external force to fix their problems, emphasizing the futility of inaction.

The second verse introduces the idea that even a bird, a symbol of freedom, would be drawn to the 'dirt from abyssal dark,' suggesting that curiosity and the desire for new experiences can lead to destructive outcomes. The imagery of a feather causing a kingdom to burn and bloodshed to start underscores the potential for small actions to have catastrophic consequences. The protagonist's transformation into a 'shadow in the shape of wonder' reflects a loss of identity and purpose, while the 'waves of black' symbolize overwhelming despair. The line 'If she's going under I can hold my breath till the sky comes back' portrays a sense of helplessness and the struggle to survive in a collapsing world.

The final verse shifts to a more macabre tone, describing the process of catching a monster by making a movie and cutting its brains out. This could be seen as a critique of how society deals with its fears and problems, often through sensationalism and violence. The burning pyre and the reference to 'half the distance, half the motion' suggest a sense of incompleteness and the difficulty of true communication. The song concludes with the idea that communication is 'easy as the ocean,' implying that while it may seem simple, it is vast and complex, much like the themes explored in the song.