Meaning of "Prelude" by Kavinsky

The lyrics of "Prelude" can be interpreted as a metaphorical representation of transformation and isolation. The teenage protagonist symbolizes the typical adolescent experience of longing for greatness, idolizing heroes, and being infatuated with love. However, his encounter with the red car and the subsequent fusion of their souls represents a significant change in his life. This transformation can be seen as a metaphor for the maturation process and the realization that life can be chaotic and unpredictable.

The burning wreckage and the merging of souls reflect a loss of innocence and the acceptance of a new reality. The protagonist's invisibility to everyone but the girl he loves further emphasizes his feelings of detachment and isolation from the world. The night becomes a symbol of the unknown and the struggles of navigating through it alone. The lyrics evoke a sense of melancholy and longing, emphasizing the protagonist's yearning for connection and understanding.

Furthermore, the 1986 setting and the references to heroes suggest a nostalgic undertone, conveying a sense of longing for an idealized past. This could represent a longing for a simpler time, a desire to recapture the innocence and wonder of youth, or even a yearning for the perfect love that the protagonist believes existed in the past.

Overall, the lyrics of "Prelude" delve into themes of transformation, isolation, nostalgia, and longing. They explore the universal experience of grappling with the complexities of life, the loss of innocence, and the innate desire for connection.