Meaning of "Flash Delirium" by MGMT

"Flash Delirium" is a complex song that tackles a range of themes within its lyrics. One prominent theme is the sense of confusion and apprehension. The opening lines set the tone, describing a mild apprehension and blank dreams of coming fun. This hints at a sense of uncertainty and unease in the face of an unknowable future. As the song progresses, the lyrics delve into the desire for escape. The line, "You say, 'I've got the backbone'/The back way to escape the gun," suggests a longing to break free from negative circumstances. Climbing a tree with a missing limb represents the futile attempt at liberation without genuinely helping oneself or others. There is a sense of feeling trapped or powerless, emphasized by the line, "And now it hurts to stay at home."

A recurring motif in the song is the concept of illusions and distorted realities. The mention of a mirror ball throwing mold conveys a distorted reflection of oneself and a crumbling facade. The flash catching a white lily laugh and wilt suggests the fleeting nature of beauty and joy. This idea of transience is further explored in the lyrics, "Plants, as far as I know are still/Still bending toward the light." It touches on the idea that even in a world full of chaos and confusion, there is still an instinct to seek out the light, to find hope.

The song also addresses the allure and dangers of fame. The line, "And you'll never be as good as the Rolling Stones," acknowledges the pressure to live up to certain expectations or models of success. The birds in the airport gathering dirt can be interpreted as a metaphor for the media and its relentless pursuit of scandal or sensationalism. The mention of the clean magazine and the chick lifting up her skirt highlights the objectification of women and the commodification of sexuality in the media. The lyrics condemn these shallow aspects of fame, highlighting the absurdity and emptiness of it all.

Overall, "Flash Delirium" is a lyrical exploration of confusion, disillusionment, and the search for meaning in a distorted world. It reflects on the desire for escape, the challenges of relationships, and the volatility of fame. The lyrics convey a sense of apprehension, uncertainty, and the longing for something more genuine and meaningful.