Meaning of "We've Got Everything" by Modest Mouse

"We've Got Everything" explores the theme of false knowledge and misguided confidence. The repetition of phrases like "We know everything" and "We've got everything" conveys a sense of arrogance and self-importance. The narrator believes that they have everything figured out and know everything there is to know. However, the events described in the song, including drunkenness, accidents, and destructive behavior, undermine their claims.

The lines "If we carried it out to sea, pushed it over the edge, we'd have all been through" suggest a desire for a fresh start, a clean slate. The characters in the song seem to be trapped in a mundane and unsatisfying existence, longing for something more meaningful. They engage in reckless behavior, hoping to break free from the monotony of their lives.

The image of the boat in the bay looking like a "sad ass little canoe" reflects a sense of disappointment and unfulfillment. Despite their claims of having everything, the reality falls far short of their expectations. The repetition of phrases like "we've done everything" and "we've tried everything" conveys a sense of exhaustion and resignation. The characters have exhausted all their options, but their efforts have been half-hearted and insincere.

The song also touches on consumerism and materialism. The lines "We crashed in like waves into the store / Didn't want it, didn't need it, but we knew that we could see it so we opened up the door" highlight the impulse to acquire things, even when they are not necessary or desired. The characters are driven by a desire for immediate gratification and are willing to take destructive actions to satisfy their desires.

Overall, "We've Got Everything" explores the theme of false knowledge, misguided confidence, and the emptiness of material pursuits. It challenges the notion of having everything figured out and suggests that true fulfillment and understanding may lie beyond our grasp.