The Ennui of Modern Life: Tessa Violet's 'Bored'

Tessa Violet's song 'Bored' captures the pervasive sense of ennui and existential dread that many people experience in the modern world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a restless mind, unable to find satisfaction or purpose. The song opens with the protagonist staying up late, not out of necessity but to avoid the monotony of sleep and the subsequent day. This sets the tone for a narrative steeped in self-reflection and dissatisfaction.

The recurring theme of boredom is not just about a lack of activity but a deeper sense of unfulfillment. The protagonist is 'exhausted by [their] heart,' indicating emotional fatigue and a struggle to find meaning. The mention of being 'nervous and bored' suggests a paradoxical state where anxiety and boredom coexist, a common experience in today's fast-paced yet often superficial world. The lyrics also touch on the habit of saying 'sorry' when speaking, highlighting a lack of self-confidence and the internalized pressure to conform to social expectations.

The song delves into the protagonist's isolation, as they are 'bored of being all alone' and seek purpose in 'pictures on [their] phone.' This line poignantly captures the modern reliance on digital devices for a sense of connection and meaning, which often proves to be unfulfilling. The repeated questioning of 'Is this all there is?' underscores a profound existential crisis, questioning the very essence of life and purpose. Tessa Violet's 'Bored' is a raw and relatable exploration of the struggles of finding meaning and satisfaction in a world that often feels empty and repetitive.

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  1. Crush
  2. Just Right
  3. Bad Ideas
  4. I Like (the idea of) You
  5. Not Over You
  6. Bored
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