Congratulations

MGMT's song 'Congratulations' delves into the disillusionment and emptiness that often accompany success and recognition. The opening lines, 'Dead in the water / It's not a paid vacation,' set a somber tone, suggesting that the journey to success is fraught with challenges and is far from the glamorous image often portrayed. The mention of 'sons and daughters of city officials' attending demonstrations hints at societal expectations and the pressure to conform, while the line 'all is well if the ticket sells' underscores the commercialization of success.

The song continues to explore the theme of superficiality with lines like 'Out with a wimper / It's not a blaze of glory.' Here, MGMT contrasts the expected grandeur of success with the reality of its often underwhelming nature. The imagery of looking down from a temple as people 'endeavor to make it a story' suggests a disconnect between the public's perception and the artist's reality. The line 'all is lost if it's never heard' emphasizes the futility of unrecognized efforts.

In the chorus, the lyrics 'I've got someone to make reports / That tell me how my money's spent' reflect a life of privilege and detachment. The protagonist is shielded from reality, unable to see what's truly there, and all they seek is a 'great big congratulations.' This craving for validation, despite the hollowness of the achievements, is a central theme. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the artist's internal struggle, 'I'd rather dissolve than have you ignore me,' highlighting the fear of insignificance. The final image of spreading arms to 'soak up congratulations' captures the bittersweet nature of success—celebrated yet ultimately unfulfilling.