Start a War

The National's song 'Start a War' delves into the complexities of relationships and the unspoken tensions that can arise when expectations are unmet. The lyrics reflect a sense of disappointment and longing for something better, something more fulfilling. The repeated line 'We expected something, something better than before' underscores a collective disillusionment, suggesting that the characters in the song had high hopes that were ultimately dashed. This sentiment is relatable to anyone who has ever felt let down by a situation or a person they trusted.

The metaphor of locking something valuable behind a painting and walking away speaks to the idea of hiding one's true feelings or problems instead of addressing them. This act of avoidance is portrayed as a catalyst for conflict, as indicated by the warning 'Walk away now, and you're gonna start a war.' The war here is not a literal one but an emotional or psychological battle that ensues when issues are left unresolved. The song suggests that ignoring problems only leads to greater strife, a theme that resonates deeply in both personal relationships and broader social contexts.

The lines 'Whatever went away I'll get it over again, I'll get money, I'll get funny again' hint at a sense of resilience and determination to reclaim what was lost. However, this determination is tinged with a sense of irony and perhaps even futility, as if the speaker is trying to convince themselves as much as anyone else. The repetition of 'We were always weird, but I never had to hold you by the edges like I do now' adds another layer of complexity, indicating a shift in the dynamics of the relationship. The need to 'hold by the edges' suggests a fragility that wasn't there before, highlighting how time and unmet expectations can erode even the strongest bonds.