Art Lover

The Kinks' song 'Art Lover' delves into the complex and often misunderstood emotions of a man who finds solace in observing young girls in the park. At first glance, the lyrics might seem unsettling, as the narrator describes his actions in a way that could be perceived as voyeuristic. However, a deeper analysis reveals a more nuanced story. The narrator insists he is not a 'dirty old man' or a 'flasher,' but rather an 'art lover,' someone who appreciates beauty in a non-threatening, almost artistic manner. This distinction is crucial to understanding the song's true meaning.

The lyrics are filled with artistic references, such as comparing the girls to 'degas ballerinas' and 'porcelain.' These metaphors elevate the girls to the status of art, something to be admired from a distance. The narrator's use of art as a metaphor suggests a deeper, perhaps more innocent appreciation of beauty. He is not interested in physical interaction but rather in the aesthetic pleasure he derives from watching them. This is further emphasized by his lament that the girls are 'just a substitute for what's been taken from me,' hinting at a loss or void in his life that he tries to fill through these observations.

The song also touches on themes of loneliness and longing. The narrator spends 'hours and hours' following the girl, wishing he could take her home but knowing that 'could never be.' His actions are driven by a deep-seated need for connection and beauty, which he finds in these fleeting moments. The repeated plea, 'come to daddy,' underscores his yearning for something unattainable. By the end of the song, he resigns himself to the fact that 'Sunday afternoon can't last forever,' and he must return to his reality, having only 'learned to appreciate' the beauty he observes 'the way art lovers do.'