Meaning of "Signs of Life" by Arcade Fire

The lyrics of "Signs of Life" reflect a sense of disillusionment and aimlessness in the lives of the cool kids mentioned in the song. They are depicted as being trapped in a cycle of seeking fulfillment and excitement in life through various means such as first kisses, lost friendships, and the quest for love and sex. Despite their efforts, they find themselves in a world filled with cigarette ash, symbolizing decay and stagnation. The repeated questioning of "Where are we going?" emphasizes the characters' confusion and lack of direction. The constant search for signs of life highlights their yearning for something more meaningful, but ultimately, they keep repeating the same futile actions without finding the fulfillment they seek. The lyrics suggest a theme of dissatisfaction, disillusionment with modern life, and the struggle to find purpose in a world that seems devoid of genuine meaning.