Primitive

Real Estate's song 'Primitive' delves into the complexities of modern life and relationships, juxtaposing the natural world with the artificiality of contemporary existence. The opening lines, 'When the night is young in the land I'm from / The seasons ghost away,' evoke a sense of nostalgia and loss, as the natural rhythms of life are overshadowed by the relentless pace of modernity. The mention of stars obscured by light pollution further emphasizes this theme, suggesting that even the most timeless and universal elements of nature are being eclipsed by human progress.

The chorus, 'Don't know where I want to be / But I'm glad that you're with me,' captures the uncertainty and transience that often characterize modern relationships. Despite the ambiguity about the future, the presence of a loved one provides a sense of comfort and stability. This sentiment is reinforced by the line, 'And all I know is it'd be easy to leave,' which acknowledges the ease with which one could escape the pressures of modern life but chooses to stay because of the emotional connection.

The song also touches on the idea of progress and what it means to be 'primitive.' The line, 'You still can't see the stars at night / But we're not primitive,' suggests that while technological advancements have obscured some aspects of the natural world, they have also brought about a different kind of enlightenment. This duality reflects the band's broader musical style, which often blends nostalgic, dreamy melodies with contemporary themes. Real Estate's 'Primitive' ultimately serves as a meditation on the balance between the natural and the artificial, the past and the present, and the individual and the collective in the context of modern life and relationships.