Selfless

The Strokes, known for their revival of garage rock in the early 2000s, often blend catchy guitar riffs with introspective lyrics. 'Selfless,' a track from their 2020 album 'The New Abnormal,' is no exception. The song delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the longing for connection. The lyrics suggest a deep emotional investment in another person, to the point of self-sacrifice, which is a recurring theme in the band's music.

The opening lines, 'Can the dark side light my way?' set a tone of seeking guidance or salvation in something that is typically seen as negative or harmful. This could be interpreted as finding comfort in the embrace of a flawed relationship or individual. The plea 'Please, don’t be long, 'cause I want your love' conveys a sense of urgency and dependency on the other person's affection, highlighting the vulnerability that comes with deep emotional connections. The repetition of 'Life is too short, but I will live for you' emphasizes the singer's dedication and the extent to which they prioritize the other's happiness over their own.

The latter part of the song introduces a sense of frustration and resignation. The lines 'Bite my tongue and wait my turn / I waited for a century' and 'Waste my breath, no lessons learned' suggest a long-standing patience that has yet to be rewarded. The singer's declaration of not being scared or caring, and not listening, could indicate a protective mechanism against the pain of unrequited love or the realization that their devotion may not be reciprocated. Despite this, the song ends with a reaffirmation of selfless love, indicating that the singer's commitment remains unwavering, even in the face of indifference or rejection.