Meaning of "Fortune" by Little Dragon

The lyrics of "Fortune" convey a cautionary tale about the dangers of chasing after material wealth and success at the expense of personal relationships and inner peace. The imagery of mountains of pearls, gold, silver, silk, clocks, and rubies symbolizes the allure of wealth and luxury, while also highlighting the emptiness and superficiality that can come with it. The protagonist of the song experiences a sense of disconnection from reality, as vivid life turns into a dull grey existence, and friends drift away because of their obsession with wealth. The chorus reflects a haunting realization that fortune can be a double-edged sword, bringing both success and destruction. Ultimately, the lyrics suggest that true fulfillment and happiness cannot be found in material possessions, but in genuine connections, self-awareness, and inner contentment.