Meaning of "Ikea" by Jonathan Coulton

The lyrics of "Ikea" by Jonathan Coulton poke fun at the quirky nature of the popular Swedish furniture store while also celebrating the sense of home and community it provides. Through humorous anecdotes about the furniture's names, the practicality of the products, and the affordability of items like Billy the bookcase and the Allen wrenches, the song juxtaposes the mundane act of shopping for furniture with the idea of achieving the American dream. The mention of the Swedish parade in New Jersey further emphasizes the assimilation of Ikea into American culture. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of finding comfort and belonging in unexpected places, highlighting the universal need for a home and the diverse ways in which people may seek to fulfill this need.