Apartment Story

The National's 'Apartment Story' delves into the complexities of modern domestic life, capturing both the comfort and the chaos that come with it. The song opens with a plea for stillness, a moment of calm in the midst of trying to 'pin your flowers on,' a metaphor for attempting to maintain beauty and order. The lyrics reflect a sense of self-sufficiency, yet also a feeling of being overwhelmed, as the narrator admits to forgetting why they are doing what they do. This duality of being 'tired and wired' encapsulates the exhaustion and restlessness that often accompany daily routines.

The chorus highlights a sense of disillusionment, with everything the couple once believed in 'diving off the balcony.' This imagery suggests a loss of faith or hope, a common theme in The National's music. The line 'sleep in our clothes and wait for winter to leave' evokes a sense of stagnation and waiting for change, a metaphor for enduring tough times while hoping for better days. The couple's attempt to 'hold ourselves together with our arms around the stereo' signifies finding solace in music, a temporary escape from their troubles.

As the song progresses, the lyrics paint a picture of isolation and escapism. The couple decides to 'stay inside till somebody finds us,' doing 'whatever the TV tells us,' which reflects a retreat into a safe, controlled environment. This 'rosy-minded fuzz' represents a state of denial or avoidance, where they can ignore their problems and find comfort in superficial distractions. Despite the underlying tension, the repeated reassurance that 'all things are well' and 'we'll be alright' suggests a clinging to hope and the small comforts that make life bearable. The song beautifully captures the delicate balance between seeking refuge in the familiar and confronting the inevitable challenges of life.