Meaning of "Strangers To Ourselves" by Modest Mouse

On a deeper level, the lyrics of "Strangers To Ourselves" explore the complexities of human psychology and the paradoxical nature of our emotions. The repetition of the phrase "We're lucky that" highlights the narrator's acknowledgement of their fortune in certain situations, such as sleeping peacefully or being able to forget. This emphasizes the fleeting nature of luck and the tendency to take it for granted. However, the contrasting phrase "How often we become susceptible to regret" reveals the narrator's self-awareness of their own vulnerability to negative emotions. The use of the word "susceptible" suggests that regret is something that can easily permeate our consciousness, overpowering the positive experiences.

The line "How often we are confused, how honestly we tried, but we'll forget" speaks to the human struggle with memory and the difficulty in holding onto important experiences and lessons learned. It expresses the idea that even when we sincerely put in effort, our minds tend to let go of the memories that shape us. This could be seen as a commentary on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of forgetting the moments that define us.

The repetition of the phrase "We have designed, have designed, have designed" suggests that humans are actively responsible for shaping their own lives and circumstances. By highlighting the concept of design, the lyrics imply that it is within our power to create meaning and purpose in our lives, even if we may forget it over time. This ties back to the theme of luck and forgetfulness, reminding the listener that while we may be lucky in some moments, it is ultimately up to us to design our own destinies.

Overall, "Strangers To Ourselves" delves into the intricate nature of human experiences and emotions. It explores the dichotomy of luck and forgetfulness, and the delicate balance between appreciating the positive moments in life while recognizing our susceptibility to regret and confusion. The lyrics serve as a reminder to actively cherish and remember the important aspects of our lives, as well as the agency we have in designing our own paths.