Nothing To Declare

MGMT's 'Nothing To Declare' is a contemplative exploration of existential uncertainty and the search for meaning. The song's lyrics are filled with metaphors and imagery that evoke a sense of wandering and introspection. The repeated phrase 'Nothing to declare' suggests a state of emptiness or lack of definitive answers, despite the presence of experiences and memories ('Not in the bags under my eyes' and 'Not in the valise of my mind'). This could imply a feeling of disconnection or the inability to find concrete meaning in one's life or surroundings.

The references to 'Fine de Claire' and 'Spanish castle in the sky' add a layer of surrealism and fantasy to the song. 'Fine de Claire' is a type of oyster, symbolizing something precious and hidden, while the 'Spanish castle in the sky' evokes an unattainable dream or ideal. These images suggest that the narrator is searching for something elusive and valuable, yet remains unable to grasp or define it. The line 'The waters beckon me to dive' further emphasizes the allure of the unknown and the desire to explore deeper truths, even if they remain out of reach.

The song also touches on themes of identity and belonging. The narrator's journey is marked by a sense of disorientation and a longing for connection ('Don't ask me who I am' and 'Don't ask me where I was'). The starlight, which 'ain't never gonna let me down,' represents a guiding force or hope, but it is juxtaposed with the reality of stumbling 'like a drunkard back to town.' This contrast highlights the tension between aspiration and reality, and the struggle to reconcile one's dreams with the mundane aspects of life. Ultimately, 'Nothing To Declare' captures the complexity of the human experience, where the search for meaning is fraught with uncertainty and the answers remain elusive.