White Sky

Vampire Weekend's 'White Sky' is a vivid exploration of urban life, modernity, and the juxtaposition of the old and new. The song opens with the imagery of an 'ancient business' and 'modern piece of glasswork,' setting the stage for a narrative that intertwines the past and present. The mention of an 'elderly sales clerk' who doesn't eye the protagonists with suspicion suggests a sense of acceptance and continuity within the ever-changing urban landscape. The 'immortal corporation' granting permission hints at the pervasive influence of corporate entities in modern life, shaping our experiences and interactions.

The lyrics then shift to a more intimate setting with 'a little stairway' and 'a little bit of carpet,' evoking a sense of familiarity and domesticity. The 'pair of mirrors facing one another' creates an infinite reflection, symbolizing the endless possibilities and repetitions within the city. The 'thousand little Julias' converging in Manhattan further emphasize the idea of multiplicity and the convergence of diverse lives in a single urban space. The recurring line 'You waited since lunch, it all comes at once' captures the suddenness and intensity of urban experiences, where moments of anticipation culminate in a rush of events.

The song also delves into the world of modern art, with references to 'the house that modern art built' and the 'Richard Cera Skate Park.' These lines highlight the commodification of art and the spaces created to house it, away from the private collections of the wealthy. The mention of 'sins of pride and envy' suggests a critique of the elitism and exclusivity often associated with the art world. The whimsical imagery of 'horses racing taxis in the winter' and imagining oneself as 'wolfords in a ball upon the sink' adds a layer of surrealism, reflecting the dreamlike and sometimes absurd nature of city life.

'White Sky' is a rich tapestry of observations and reflections on urban existence, blending the mundane with the extraordinary, and the historical with the contemporary. It invites listeners to ponder the complexities and contradictions of modern life, all set against the backdrop of a bustling metropolis.