Meaning of "Coyotes" by Modest Mouse

The lyrics of "Coyotes" delve into the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world. The mention of coyotes tiptoeing in the snow after dark represents the silent presence of wildlife in the face of mankind's encroachment. The line "at home with the ghosts in the national parks" alludes to the displacement and disregard for the indigenous peoples whose lands have been turned into national parks. It illustrates how humans have become disconnected from the environment, treating it as a mere tourist attraction rather than recognizing the deep histories and spirits that reside within these spaces.

The song portrays mankind's behavior as that of a serial killer, emphasizing the destructive tendencies of human beings towards nature. It highlights the irony of how we, the "giant ol' monsters," are afraid of the repercussions of our own actions, much like being afraid of the sharks we have become.

Despite this condemnation, the lyrics also reveal a strange admiration for the destruction caused by humanity. The repeated line "And we're in love with all of it" suggests a simultaneous fascination and acceptance of the beauty and chaos that humans have created. It is as though we are drawn to the spectacle of our own destructive power, even though we recognize the harm it causes.

The repeated question, "What can we sing?" reflects a sense of helplessness and introspection. It acknowledges the need for change but also hints at a lack of clear direction. It implies that through music or creative expression, we may find solace or a way to reconcile our conflicting emotions and actions.

In the final lines, the lyrics mention lying and loving to lie. This suggests a self-awareness of the lies we tell ourselves and others about our love for the destructive aspects of our world. It hints at the hypocrisy inherent within our relationship with nature and serves as a call to action, imploring us to confront our own dishonesty and make changes for the better.