Not In Kansas

The National's song 'Not In Kansas' is a poignant exploration of dislocation, both personal and societal. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world that feels increasingly alien and unrecognizable. The repeated refrain 'I am not in Kansas' serves as a metaphor for a loss of familiarity and comfort, echoing Dorothy's famous line from 'The Wizard of Oz.' This sense of dislocation is compounded by references to contemporary issues such as the rise of the alt-right and the opioid crisis, suggesting a world in moral and social decline.

The song is rich with cultural references, from 'Broadcast News' to 'Hanne Darboven,' and even mentions of R.E.M. and Annette Bening. These references serve to ground the song in a specific cultural milieu, while also highlighting the fragmentation and overload of modern life. The line 'My bedroom is a stranger's gunroom' starkly captures the invasion of personal space by societal issues, making the private public and vice versa. The mention of 'alt-right opium' going viral underscores the pervasive and insidious nature of these societal changes.

The lyrics also delve into personal struggles and existential questions. The narrator grapples with feelings of inadequacy and fear, as seen in lines like 'Father, what is wrong with me?' and 'I'm scared that I won't have the balls to punch a Nazi.' These personal anxieties are set against a backdrop of broader societal collapse, creating a sense of overwhelming despair. Yet, there is also a yearning for simplicity and a return to nature, as suggested by the closing lines about becoming a 'fish or a weed or a sparrow.' This longing for a simpler, more harmonious existence contrasts sharply with the chaotic and fragmented world described throughout the song.

'Not In Kansas' is a complex and layered song that captures the zeitgeist of a world in flux. It speaks to the disorientation and alienation felt by many in contemporary society, while also offering a glimmer of hope for a return to a more natural and peaceful state of being.