Common Loon

Xiu Xiu's 'Common Loon' delves into themes of identity, impermanence, and societal expectations through its cryptic and evocative lyrics. The song opens with a series of questions, 'What will you do? If and when? I am someone else,' suggesting a sense of uncertainty and transformation. This could be interpreted as the artist grappling with their own identity or the fluid nature of self-perception. The mention of 'They are a freak' juxtaposed with 'Cool' hints at the societal labels and judgments that people often face, and how these labels can be both alienating and oddly empowering.

The recurring phrase 'Common Loon' paired with 'Inopportune' evokes a sense of being out of place or misunderstood. The loon, a bird known for its haunting calls, symbolizes a unique yet often overlooked presence. This imagery is further emphasized by the line 'Red Balloon, Overused,' which could signify something once special that has lost its novelty or meaning. Despite these feelings of being out of sync or overused, the refrain 'But don't you worry about it now?' suggests a call to let go of these anxieties and embrace the present moment.

The song also touches on themes of beauty and politeness with lines like 'A beautiful BOI, Vaseline, To be polite.' These lines could be interpreted as a commentary on the superficial aspects of beauty and the societal pressure to conform to certain standards. The phrase 'It's time to creep out, Get Low Low, Dandy' implies a breaking free from these constraints and embracing one's true self, even if it means being seen as unconventional or 'creepy.' Overall, 'Common Loon' is a complex exploration of identity, societal expectations, and the transient nature of life, encouraging listeners to find their own path and not be weighed down by external judgments.