Elephant

Tame Impala's 'Elephant' is a song that combines psychedelic rock with introspective lyrics, creating a vivid portrayal of a character with a larger-than-life presence. The opening lines liken the subject of the song to an elephant, suggesting a person with a commanding and noticeable presence, shaking 'his big grey trunk for the hell of it.' This imagery implies a sense of doing things for the sheer joy of it, without concern for the opinions of others. The mention of others dreaming to be loved by him, yet having slim chances, further paints a picture of a person who is desired but unattainable, enhancing the aura of unapproachable grandeur.

The lyrics delve into the complexities of the character, hinting at a hidden depth with 'something deep down in the dark down there.' This line suggests that beneath the surface bravado, there may be insecurities or fears that are not easily revealed. The character's friends are described as having 'the fear,' indicating that they might be intimidated by or anxious about the world around them, contrasting with the protagonist's apparent fearlessness. The elephant's actions, such as removing mirrors from his Cadillac, symbolize a refusal to reflect on the past or to be concerned with self-examination, reinforcing the theme of living in the moment and projecting confidence.

The song concludes with a sense of inevitability, 'That’s how it is 'til the end,' which could imply that the character's behavior and the way he is perceived will remain unchanged. The narrative arc of 'Elephant' captures the essence of a person who is both admired and isolated by their own distinctive traits, and the societal reactions to such an individual. Tame Impala, known for their psychedelic sound and introspective lyrics, uses this song to explore themes of identity, perception, and the dichotomy between external bravado and internal complexity.