Screenager

Muse's song 'Screenager' delves into the complexities of identity and self-perception in the modern world, particularly in the context of digital and social media. The term 'Screenager' itself is a portmanteau of 'screen' and 'teenager,' suggesting a generation that has grown up with screens as a central part of their lives. The lyrics explore the disconnection and alienation that can result from this digital immersion.

The opening lines, 'Who's so phoney and always surrounded? / Stop your screaming, no one can hear,' highlight the superficiality and isolation that often accompany social media interactions. Despite being constantly 'surrounded' by virtual connections, the individual feels unheard and unseen. The scars mentioned in 'All the scars on your skin, post no bills' could symbolize emotional or psychological wounds that are hidden behind curated online personas.

The recurring lines 'Who you were / Was so beautiful / Remember who / Who you were' serve as a poignant reminder of the loss of one's true self. The song suggests that the pressures and expectations of maintaining a digital presence can lead to a disconnection from one's authentic identity. The imagery of hiding from mirrors and family further emphasizes this theme of alienation and the struggle to reconcile one's online persona with their real-life self. The 'holes in our souls' metaphorically represent the emptiness and lack of fulfillment that can result from this disconnection.

Overall, 'Screenager' is a reflective and critical examination of how digital culture impacts our sense of self and relationships. It calls for a return to authenticity and a remembrance of who we truly are beneath the layers of digital façades.