Meaning of "Turn Off The Lights, I'm Watching Back To The Future" by Dance Gavin Dance

The lyrics of "Turn Off The Lights, I'm Watching Back To The Future" delve into a dark and turbulent internal struggle. The references to turning the car into an alibi and discarding a body suggest a desire to escape the consequences of their actions through violence and deception. The line "purge, then binge, restart and, insert the sutures" hints at a pattern of destructive behavior followed by attempted healing or covering up of the wounds. This could involve substance abuse as a means of escape or self-medication. The repetition of the phrase "Turn off the lights, I'm watching back to the future" creates a sense of detachment and avoidance, as if the protagonist would rather live in a fictional world than face reality.

The lyrics also touch on themes of regret and self-awareness. The line "Before we go too far, I won't let you take this light" suggests a recognition that their actions are leading them down a dark path and a refusal to let themselves be consumed by it. They also mention breathing in their mistakes without coming clean, indicating a reluctance to confront the truth and take responsibility for their actions. This internal struggle is further emphasized by the line "Coming off the lie I will separate. it only looks so far well fill these holes," which hints at a desire to distance themselves from their past actions and the pain they have caused.

The repeated phrase "I thought my words would have mass appeal" expresses a sense of disappointment and disillusionment. The protagonist may have held the belief that their words and actions would have a significant impact, but they now realize that their influence is limited and their attempts at mass appeal have been fruitless.

The plea for help in the closing lines ("Why, why, Help") showcases the protagonist's desperation and a longing for someone to intervene and guide them away from their destructive tendencies. This cry for assistance suggests an underlying desire to break free from the cycle of self-destructive behavior and seek a healthier, more fulfilling path.

Overall, the lyrics capture the internal struggle of someone caught in a web of destructive behavior, escapism, and self-preservation. They wrestle with regret, seek solace in avoidance, and ultimately call out for help and a way out of their destructive tendencies.