Everybody Talks

Neon Trees' catchy tune 'Everybody Talks' encapsulates the infectious nature of gossip and the impact it can have on relationships. The song opens with a flirtatious invitation, suggesting the beginning of a new romance. However, the excitement is quickly overshadowed by the 'fiction' and 'trash talk' that seems to follow, hinting at the destructive power of rumors and how they can distort reality. The phrase 'everybody talks' becomes a refrain that underscores the inevitability of gossip spreading.

The narrative of the song unfolds with the singer recounting a moment of intimacy that 'started with a whisper,' which could be interpreted both literally and metaphorically. The whisper represents the initial act of gossip that grows louder and more pervasive, just as a romantic whisper can lead to a kiss. The mention of 'mamas always gotta back track' suggests that even those with authority or wisdom are not immune to the effects of gossip, having to retract or defend against the words that spread.

The song also touches on the theme of desire and its complications. The singer refers to the object of their affection as both a potential 'addiction' and a 'drug,' indicating an overwhelming attraction that could be harmful if taken to excess. This metaphor extends to the idea that too much attention to what others say—too much 'everybody talks'—can be an 'overdose' that ruins the relationship. The repeated line 'everybody talks back' emphasizes the reciprocal nature of gossip; it's not just that people talk, but that there's a response, a back-and-forth that keeps the rumor mill churning.