Oxford Comma

Vampire Weekend's 'Oxford Comma' is a playful yet pointed critique of societal norms and the often arbitrary rules that govern language and behavior. The song opens with a provocative question, 'Who gives a fuck about an oxford comma?' This sets the tone for the entire piece, challenging the importance placed on grammatical precision and, by extension, other societal expectations. The Oxford comma, a punctuation mark used before the conjunction in a list, becomes a metaphor for the trivialities that people often obsess over, ignoring more significant issues.

The lyrics weave through various scenarios, from English dramas to a spiritual journey to Dharamsala, highlighting the absurdity of rigid adherence to rules. The mention of meeting the highest lama and finding his accent 'fine' underscores the idea that communication and understanding transcend formalities. The song also touches on themes of honesty and authenticity, questioning why people lie about trivial matters like the amount of coal they have. This could be seen as a broader commentary on the superficiality and dishonesty prevalent in society.

The recurring references to 'Lil' Jon, he always tells the truth' serve as a contrast to the deceit and pretentiousness criticized throughout the song. Lil' Jon, known for his straightforward and unfiltered style, symbolizes the value of honesty and being true to oneself. The song's playful tone, combined with its sharp social commentary, makes 'Oxford Comma' a thought-provoking piece that encourages listeners to question the importance of societal norms and the value of authenticity over superficiality.