Big TV

White Lies' song 'Big TV' delves into the themes of modern isolation and the superficiality of contemporary life. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who is trying to find meaning and connection in a world dominated by technology and materialism. The opening lines, 'I'm gonna settle down slow / Down to the hum / Of electric life and soul,' suggest a resignation to a life that is driven by the constant buzz of technology, highlighting the pervasive influence of electronic devices in our daily lives.

The chorus, 'I've got a room downtown / With a bed and a big tv,' serves as a metaphor for the emptiness and isolation that can come with modern living. Despite having the trappings of a comfortable life, the protagonist feels a deep sense of loneliness and disconnection. The repetition of this line emphasizes the monotony and lack of fulfillment in their existence. The mention of a 'big tv' symbolizes the superficial distractions that people often turn to in an attempt to fill the void in their lives.

The song also touches on the idea of striving for authenticity in a world that often feels artificial. Lines like 'But why can't anything be real? / Emotion like the movies feel' express a longing for genuine experiences and emotions, contrasting with the often shallow and scripted nature of modern life. The reference to 'the hand of fate' and 'the river or the new arcade' suggests a desire to escape the mundane and find something more meaningful. Overall, 'Big TV' is a poignant commentary on the challenges of finding true connection and purpose in a technologically driven society.