Meaning of "Lotus Eater" by Foster The People

"Lotus Eater" delves into the struggles of the narrator with societal pressure and their own sense of self. The opening lines express the narrator's resistance to conforming to societal norms and the artificial behavior of those around them. They see through the facade of people who put on a show, pretending to be happy and content. The mention of "Molly" suggests a substance that was once a comfort or escape for the narrator, but ultimately adds to their feeling of loss.

The narrator desires a genuine connection, someone who sees them for who they are, but simultaneously feels unworthy and different from others. They apologize for being late and not wanting to participate in the superficiality, feeling like an outsider in this world. They question the frivolousness of keeping up with current events and suggest the idea of escaping from it all.

The lyrics also touch upon the fear of commitment and the search for more meaning in life. The narrator wonders why they can't fully commit to love and why there is always a desire for more. They highlight the paradox of always wanting more, despite already having things that should bring happiness. This depicts a sense of discontentment and a never-ending search for fulfillment.

Ultimately, the lyrics suggest an underlying loneliness and self-doubt within the narrator. They feel like they are faking their way through life, but at the same time, they reject the idea of conforming and sacrificing their true self. The repeated mention of "running" implies a desire for escape from this internal turmoil and the pressures of society.