Alligator

Of Monsters And Men's song 'Alligator' is a vivid and evocative exploration of emotional turbulence and self-discovery. The lyrics paint a picture of a surreal, almost dreamlike state where the protagonist is overwhelmed by intense feelings and sensory experiences. The opening lines, 'I see colour raining down / Feral feeling, swaying sound,' suggest a flood of emotions and sensations that are both beautiful and chaotic. This sets the stage for a journey through the subconscious, where the protagonist grapples with understanding their desires and emotions.

The recurring theme of 'fever dreaming' in the chorus underscores a sense of losing and regaining control. Fever dreams are often intense and disorienting, mirroring the protagonist's internal struggle. The lines 'Wake me up / I'm fever dreaming / And now I lose control' reflect a desire to break free from this overwhelming state, while 'Shake it out / It's just what I'm feeling / And now I take control' signifies a moment of clarity and empowerment. This duality captures the essence of navigating through emotional highs and lows, ultimately leading to self-awareness and control.

The imagery of being laid in a stream under a starlit sky, with 'twenty-two women stood by the banks and cried,' adds a layer of mysticism and introspection. This scene could symbolize a rite of passage or a moment of profound realization, where the protagonist is both vulnerable and connected to a larger, perhaps spiritual, experience. The number twenty-two might hold personal or symbolic significance, adding depth to the narrative. Overall, 'Alligator' is a powerful depiction of the tumultuous journey through one's inner world, marked by moments of confusion, revelation, and empowerment.