Aviation

The Last Shadow Puppets' song 'Aviation' is a rich tapestry of surreal imagery and introspective musings, blending a sense of melancholy with a touch of romanticism. The opening lines, 'Hot procession / Gloomy conga of glum looking beauties,' set a somber yet intriguing tone, suggesting a parade of disenchanted figures. This could symbolize the burdens and disillusionments that people carry with them, creating a vivid backdrop for the song's narrative.

The recurring theme of 'Aviation in the evening' evokes a sense of transition and movement, perhaps hinting at the passage of time or the journey through life's uncertainties. The line 'Mama told me you should start as you mean / To go wrong / Or else you’re never gonna get it right' introduces a paradoxical piece of advice, suggesting that embracing one's flaws and mistakes is essential for genuine growth and understanding. This reflects a deeper philosophical outlook on life, where imperfection is not only accepted but seen as a necessary part of the human experience.

The song also touches on themes of connection and distance, as seen in the lines 'Señorita / Well you need not come coke head close to me / Cause I can hear you perfectly clear from here.' This could be interpreted as a commentary on the complexities of relationships, where physical proximity is not always required for emotional intimacy. The vivid imagery of 'The colourama in your eyes / It takes me on a moonlight drive' adds a layer of romantic escapism, suggesting that love and beauty can transport us to otherworldly realms, even amidst the mundane realities of life.

Overall, 'Aviation' by The Last Shadow Puppets is a poetic exploration of life's contradictions, blending melancholy with moments of transcendence, and offering a nuanced perspective on the human condition.