Meaning of "Time to Pretend" by MGMT

The meaning behind the lyrics of "Time to Pretend" by MGMT can be interpreted as a commentary on the pursuit of success, fame, and pleasure, and the trade-offs involved. The song captures the rebellious spirit and hedonistic desires often associated with youth and the music industry. The opening verse sets the tone, as the narrator expresses their current state of being raw and restless, desiring to live life to the fullest. They reject the traditional path of getting a regular job and settling into a mundane routine. Instead, they illustrate a fantasy of living in Paris, indulging in heroin and mingling with the stars.

The chorus suggests that this desire for a glamorous and carefree life is a shared sentiment, a collective decision to live fast and die young. While acknowledging the overwhelming nature of this existence, the narrator questions the alternatives of working in offices and enduring a monotonous daily routine.

The second verse explores the potential consequences of this lifestyle. While acknowledging the things they would miss, such as childhood, family, and the simplicity of life, there is a sense that these sacrifices must be made in pursuit of their chosen path. The lyrics convey a sense of inevitability, as they proclaim that love must be forgotten and new beginnings can always arise. The line about models having children and getting a divorce speaks to the transient nature of relationships within this lifestyle.

The final verse takes a darker turn as the lyrics hint at the potential downfall of this hedonistic existence. The line "We'll choke on our vomit and that will be the end" suggests the destructive consequences that can come from excess and self-destructive behavior. The song implies that this way of living is doomed to end in disaster, reinforcing the idea that they were fated to pretend, to pretend.

Overall, "Time to Pretend" by MGMT explores the allure, excitement, and potential downfall of a rebellious and hedonistic lifestyle often associated with fame and success. It offers a commentary on the sacrifices, trade-offs, and consequences that come with pursuing such a path, ultimately suggesting that this way of life is unsustainable and destined for self-destruction.