Staring At The Stars

Passenger's song "Staring At The Stars" paints a vivid and melancholic picture of disillusionment and the harsh realities of adulthood. The lyrics delve into the mundane and often depressing aspects of life, such as the physical toll of bad habits like smoking and drinking, and the emotional toll of unfulfilled dreams and broken relationships. The imagery of tobacco-stained teeth and fingers, and the reliance on substances like Red Bull to stay awake, underscores a sense of weariness and desperation.

The song also touches on the escapism that people often turn to when faced with the monotony and disappointments of life. Watching daytime TV, laughing at the misfortunes of others, and indulging in internet pornography are depicted as distractions from the loneliness and lack of genuine connection. The mention of beer bloating and shit jobs keeping people in ruts further emphasizes the feeling of being stuck in an unfulfilling routine, with the only solace being the temporary escape of drunkenness and staring at the stars.

A poignant part of the song is the reflection on childhood dreams and the stark contrast with adult reality. The lyrics recall a time when teachers encouraged children to believe they could achieve anything if they put their minds to it. However, the harsh truth is that despite their efforts, disappointment often followed, and the potential for greatness was never fully realized. The repeated refrain of "tie your scarf on tight, it's to be a cold night" serves as a metaphor for bracing oneself against the harshness of life and the emotional coldness that comes with unmet expectations and lost dreams.