Machu Picchu

The Strokes' song 'Machu Picchu' from their album 'Angles' delves into themes of disillusionment and the search for authenticity in a world mired by superficiality and materialism. The lyrics suggest a narrative of someone who is tired of the pressures and expectations of society, where one's voice is often drowned out by others, and personal agency is compromised for the sake of conformity or survival. The repeated lines about putting one's patience and body to the test for less indicate a sense of exploitation and the feeling of being undervalued.

The chorus references various societal issues, such as the objectification of women ('Blondes turn to grey'), the glorification of violence ('A violent crime'), and the deceptive nature of appearances ('Playboys in disguise'). The song's title, 'Machu Picchu,' a historic Incan city set high in the Andes Mountains, serves as a metaphor for an unattainable ideal or a place of escape from the societal ills mentioned in the song. The protagonist is searching for a 'mountain' they can climb, symbolizing a personal journey or quest for meaning beyond the superficiality of modern life.

The latter part of the song shifts to a more intimate tone, expressing a desire for a genuine connection ('A nice place for you and I') amidst the chaos. The mention of 'homeless saints in disguise' suggests that true value and virtue are often overlooked or hidden in society. The song ultimately reflects a yearning for truth and simplicity in a world that prioritizes the artificial and the transient.