Meaning of "Alien Days" by MGMT

"Alien Days" is a cryptic and introspective song that delves into themes of self-discovery, the passing of time, and the struggle between conformity and individuality. The lyrics create a surreal world where windows and seams combine, symbolizing the merging of different perspectives and realities. This merging causes a twitch, representing the disturbance caused by the clash of different experiences and belief systems. The mention of a slain spirit suggests the loss of a sense of identity or authenticity.

The song emphasizes the notion that life is a journey by using phrases such as "One foot leads to another" and "Must've skipped the ship and joined the team." This suggests that the speaker has entered a new phase in their life, possibly leaving behind their old self. The reference to learning the controls and commandeering their own eyes implies taking control of their own perception and embracing new perspectives.

The lyrics evoke a sense of uncertainty and the passing of time, describing times as both uncertain and blurring. There is a juxtaposition between the short-term experience of "one month crawling" and the long-term experience of "decades in the drain." This highlights the fleeting nature of moments in life and how they can collect and accumulate over time, shaping our understanding of ourselves.

The chorus, "Who love those alien days, the nonstop alien days," suggests that the speaker finds solace and fascination in these unconventional and unique experiences. The "nonstop alien days" could refer to a constant state of exploration and discovery, where every experience is new and unfamiliar.

The lyrics also touch on the dichotomy between societal expectations and individual desires. The mention of "monograms on the brain" suggests the pressure to conform and fit into predetermined patterns. However, the song encourages listeners to decide for themselves what is working and to embrace their own unique path, represented by the phrase "decide what's working."

The final lines of the song highlight the importance of embracing imagination and dreams. The reference to soulless creatures unable to find dreamers suggests that those who lack imagination and a sense of adventure are missing out on the true essence of life. The song ends with a sense of uncertainty and the possibility of loss, creating an open-ended interpretation of the meaning.