Post Graduation Oblivion

Walter Mitty And His Makeshift Orchestra's song "Post Graduation Oblivion" delves into the existential angst and uncertainty that often accompany the transition from college to adulthood. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young adult grappling with the pressures and expectations of post-graduation life. The narrator confesses to lying about their major to a stranger, a metaphor for the broader theme of identity crisis and the fear of not living up to societal standards. The mention of aging poorly and peaking too early reflects a deep-seated anxiety about personal and professional growth.

The song's imagery of having one's head in Oregon and feet in California symbolizes a sense of being torn between different places, ideas, or stages of life. This geographical metaphor underscores the internal conflict and disorientation the narrator feels. The preference for chest pains over daily headaches suggests a longing for more profound, albeit painful, experiences over mundane, everyday struggles. The narrator's admission of outgrowing most people they know and the fear of reminiscing highlights the loneliness and isolation that can come with personal growth and change.

Despite the overwhelming uncertainty, the narrator finds a peculiar comfort in the chaos, painting meaning on the meaningless. This act of creating significance in a seemingly indifferent world is both a coping mechanism and a form of rebellion against nihilism. The song also touches on the importance of human connection, as the narrator invites someone to share their life stories, offering a sense of solidarity and mutual understanding. The closing lines, "Cheer up Paradise," serve as a hopeful reminder that despite the challenges, there is a funny feeling that everything will be fine, encapsulating a blend of existential dread and cautious optimism.