Meaning of "Astrovan" by Mt. Joy

The lyrics of "Astrovan" by Mt. Joy explore themes of disillusionment, the search for meaning, and the nature of faith. The song presents a surreal and fantastical world where angels engage in mundane activities like smoking cigarettes, while Jesus cruises around in an Astrovan. This imagery serves as a metaphorical lens through which the song delves into deeper existential questions.

The opening lines, "Angels smoking cigarettes on rooftops in fishnets in the morning with the Moon still glowing," create a vivid and somewhat contradictory image. Angels, portrayed as ethereal and otherworldly beings, engage in earthly habits, blurring the line between the divine and the mundane. This juxtaposition suggests that there may be more to life than what meets the eye, emphasizing the theme of things not being as they seem.

The lyrics continue to explore this theme by discussing dreams as "more than paper things." Dreams are often seen as intangible and transient, but here they are presented as something significant and worth pursuing. This suggests that there is a deeper meaning behind one's aspirations and desires, beyond mere material possessions.

The narrator addresses their mother's fear of them being poor along the way, assuring her that it will be alright. This shows a sense of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The reference to Jesus driving an Astrovan adds a layer of irony and humor to the lyrics, suggesting that even the divine can exist in unexpected ways and be subject to the same human struggles.

The mention of a "holy ghost writhing on the floor from an overdose" implies a struggle with addiction and the destructive tendencies that come with it. The line "every addict has illusions" suggests that addiction is fueled by false beliefs or distorted perceptions. This ties back to the earlier theme of life not being as it seems and reflects the turmoil and inner struggles that can accompany addiction.

The song juxtaposes the idea of fame and recognition with the possibility that there may be no heaven. The narrator desires validation and fame but questions the very existence of a higher power or afterlife. This conveys a sense of existential uncertainty and the search for meaning in a seemingly chaotic world.

Overall, "Astrovan" is a complex and thought-provoking song that delves into the human struggle to find purpose, the desire for recognition, and the paradoxical nature of faith and belief.