Loss of Life

MGMT's song 'Loss of Life' delves into the profound and often unsettling theme of mortality. The opening lines, 'You can sail off the edges of the earth / Greet the workers of the universe,' suggest a journey beyond the known realms, perhaps hinting at the exploration of the afterlife or the unknown aspects of existence. This sets the stage for the central theme: the inevitability and universality of death. Despite all the experiences and knowledge one might accumulate, 'nothing prepares you for loss of life,' emphasizing the uncharted territory that death represents for everyone.

The lyrics 'At the table, undressing cosmic knots / What remains of disconnected dots' evoke the image of trying to make sense of the universe and our place within it. This metaphor of 'cosmic knots' and 'disconnected dots' suggests the complexity and often incomprehensible nature of life and death. The uncertainty of how 'the painting will look in the morning' reflects the unpredictability of life and the ultimate mystery of what comes after. The juxtaposition of 'when the day is born and life is ending' highlights the cyclical nature of existence, where beginnings and endings are intertwined.

MGMT also touches on the concept of transformation and continuity with the lines 'But it's neither created nor destroyed / There's a way to quiet all the noise.' This alludes to the idea that life and energy are conserved, merely changing forms rather than ceasing to exist. The song suggests a form of acceptance and even love for this transformation, as seen in 'Then you learn to love your loss of life.' The repetition of 'anyone can love' in the closing lines reinforces the notion that love transcends life and death, offering a comforting perspective on the inevitable end.