Meaning of "Déjà Vu" by 3OH!3

The song "Déjà Vu" by 3OH!3 explores the theme of repetitive behavior and the feeling of being trapped in a monotonous cycle. The lyrics depict a narrator who seeks solace in bars, using alcohol to escape their thoughts and the need to think deeper about their life. They express a desire for something that will assure them it's okay to switch off their mind and indulge in repetitive behavior without consequences. The narrator admits to frequenting various bars and encountering the same situations repeatedly, highlighting a lack of growth or progress.

The repetition of the lyrics "I think I've been here before, I think I've run into you, I know the things that you do, 'Cause this is déjà vu" emphasizes the feeling of being stuck in a rut. The reference to déjà vu sheds light on the predictability of the narrator's experiences. They feel as though they are reliving the same moments, meeting the same people, and engaging in the same conversations over and over again. This repetition becomes a source of frustration and discontentment.

The narrator's interactions with others also contribute to their sense of déjà vu. The encounters with a bartender, a cab driver, a woman, and a greaser all follow familiar patterns, reinforcing the repetitive nature of the narrator's existence. They find themselves in confrontations and conflicts, perhaps as a result of their constant repetition, such as getting drunk every night. The interactions with law enforcement reflect the consequences of their actions, as the narrator questions how many times they can get into trouble before facing severe repercussions.

Overall, the lyrics of "Déjà Vu" capture the feelings of stagnation, frustration, and a longing for something different. The repetition and predictability of the narrator's experiences emphasize the need for change and growth, as they search for a way to break free from their monotonous cycle.