Of Moons, Birds & Monsters

MGMT MGMT

Navigating the Abyss: MGMT's 'Of Moons, Birds & Monsters'

MGMT's 'Of Moons, Birds & Monsters' is a surreal exploration of existential themes, blending vivid imagery with abstract metaphors. The song opens with a question about cutting holes in the face of a moon base, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for self-sabotage or the disruption of one's own stability. The mention of temperature change in the 'cold black shadow' suggests the emotional consequences of such actions, hinting at feelings of isolation and desolation. The lyrics question whether the protagonist is angry at their own circumstances or passively waiting for an external force to fix their problems, emphasizing the futility of inaction.

The second verse introduces the idea that even a bird, a symbol of freedom, would be drawn to the 'dirt from abyssal dark,' suggesting that curiosity and the desire for new experiences can lead to destructive outcomes. The imagery of a feather causing a kingdom to burn and bloodshed to start underscores the potential for small actions to have catastrophic consequences. The protagonist's transformation into a 'shadow in the shape of wonder' reflects a loss of identity and purpose, while the 'waves of black' symbolize overwhelming despair. The line 'If she's going under I can hold my breath till the sky comes back' portrays a sense of helplessness and the struggle to survive in a collapsing world.

The final verse shifts to a more macabre tone, describing the process of catching a monster by making a movie and cutting its brains out. This could be seen as a critique of how society deals with its fears and problems, often through sensationalism and violence. The burning pyre and the reference to 'half the distance, half the motion' suggest a sense of incompleteness and the difficulty of true communication. The song concludes with the idea that communication is 'easy as the ocean,' implying that while it may seem simple, it is vast and complex, much like the themes explored in the song.

Share on social media Share as link
  1. Kids
  2. She Works Out Too Much
  3. Electric Feel
  4. Siberian Breaks
  5. Bubblegum Dog
  6. Future Reflections
  7. Pursuit Of Happiness (Nightmare) (Feat. Kid Cudi & Ratatat)
  8. Nothing To Declare
  9. Love Always Remains
  10. Alien Days
View all MGMT songs

Most popular topics in MGMT songs

Related artists

  1. Yeah Yeah Yeahs
    Yeah Yeah Yeahs
  2. Radiohead
    Radiohead
  3. Blur
    Blur
  4. The Drums
    The Drums
  5. Foster The People
    Foster The People
  6. Empire Of The Sun
    Empire Of The Sun
  7. Beach House
    Beach House
  8. The Kooks
    The Kooks