Animal

Miike Snow's 'Animal' delves into the complexities of self-identity and the internal struggle between one's true nature and societal expectations. The song opens with a sense of darkness and a loss of dreams, suggesting a period of existential crisis. The protagonist is grappling with the need to fill this void, hinting at a search for meaning and purpose. The recurring line, 'I change shapes just to hide in this place,' reflects the constant adaptation and facade one puts on to fit into different social contexts, yet the core essence remains unchanged—'I'm still an animal.' This metaphor of being an 'animal' signifies the raw, untamed, and instinctual part of human nature that persists despite external changes.

The lyrics also touch on the futility of materialism with the line, 'There is a hole and I tried to fill up with money, money, money.' This suggests that material wealth cannot satisfy deeper emotional or spiritual needs, and the 'hole' only grows larger. The protagonist sees a reflection of someone they once knew in another's eyes, indicating a longing for connection and understanding. This person could represent a past self or an idealized version of who they want to be. The question, 'Am I free or am I tied up?' encapsulates the central theme of the song—an ongoing battle between freedom and constraint, authenticity and pretense.

The repetition of 'I'm still an animal' underscores the inevitability of one's true nature surfacing, no matter how much one tries to conform or hide. The slipping mentioned in the song symbolizes moments of vulnerability when the facade falls away, revealing the 'animal' within. This duality of hiding and revealing, adapting and remaining true, creates a poignant narrative about the human condition. Miike Snow's blend of electronic beats and introspective lyrics makes 'Animal' a compelling exploration of identity and the universal quest for self-acceptance.