Little Dark Age

MGMT's 'Little Dark Age' is a song that encapsulates a period of personal turmoil and societal unrest. The title itself suggests a period of darkness and difficulty, a theme that is woven throughout the song's lyrics. The band, known for their psychedelic pop sound and introspective lyrics, uses vivid imagery and metaphors to convey a sense of despair and the struggle to find clarity in a confusing world.

The opening verse sets a somber tone, with references to 'the ruins of the day' and feelings that 'start to rot one wink at a time.' These lines suggest a sense of decay and the difficulty of maintaining one's composure or sanity in the face of persistent challenges. The song speaks to the human condition of grappling with one's identity ('forgiving who you are') and the consequences of one's actions ('for what you stand to gain'). The repeated advice to not hide from problems ('Just know that if you hide, it doesn’t go away') serves as a reminder that avoidance does not equate to resolution.

The chorus, 'My little dark age,' could be interpreted as a personal acknowledgment of going through a tough period, a kind of dark era on a smaller, more personal scale. The song also touches on broader societal issues, with lines like 'Policemen swear to God, Love’s seeping from their guns,' which could be a commentary on police violence and the paradox of seeking peace through force. MGMT's 'Little Dark Age' is a complex tapestry of personal introspection and social commentary, wrapped in a sound that is both haunting and catchy, encouraging listeners to face their own 'little dark ages' with open eyes and a willingness to confront rather than conceal their struggles.