Meaning of "Coffee & TV" by Blur

"Coffee & TV" delves into the themes of existential emptiness, societal alienation, and the desire for escape. The opening lines, "Do you feel like a chain store? Practically floored," convey a sense of being trapped and unfulfilled within a monotonous existence. The narrator describes themselves as one of many zeros, insignificant and kicked around by life. Their ears may be full of noise and chatter, but they feel empty and unheard, reaching out to people who never truly care about them.

In an attempt to alleviate their dissatisfaction, the narrator seeks solace in the simple pleasures of "coffee and TV." These are symbolic representations of escape and comfort, providing temporary respite from the overwhelming nature of the world. The repetition of the desire for coffee and TV highlights the narrator's longing for a peaceful and mundane existence. They feel overwhelmed by the things they have witnessed, going blind and becoming virtually braindead, emphasizing their detachment from reality and the exhausting nature of existence.

The chorus introduces the concept of sociability, highlighting the narrator's struggle with forming meaningful connections and feeling a sense of belonging in society. They express how difficult it is for them to navigate a world that feels big and bad, longing for a partner who will agree to marry them, suggesting a desire for companionship and the chance to start anew. The repetition of the phrase "start over again" emphasizes the narrator's longing for a fresh start, away from the burdens and disappointments of their current reality.

The second verse introduces the idea of the country as a potential escape. While it may seem like a refuge from the urban complexities, the narrator acknowledges that even there, they may face judgment and hurt due to their true identity. The mention of slurring words and the inability to find the door may metaphorically represent the struggles and confusion that arise when attempting to escape and find solace.

Overall, "Coffee & TV" encapsulates the universal feelings of disillusionment, loneliness, and the yearning for escape that many individuals experience when faced with the mundane aspects of life and societal pressures. The lyrics express a desire for simplicity, connection, and the opportunity to start afresh, away from a world that feels overwhelming and indifferent.