The narrator describes feeling disconnected from the world, unable to conform to societal expectations. They feel pursued by "monsters" that try to destroy them. They hide and seek distance, but ultimately express a desire to be believed in and understood.

Read more
image

Meaning of "Monsters" by Something For Kate


The lyrics of "Monsters" by Something For Kate explore themes of alienation, non-conformity, and the search for authenticity. The narrator is depicted as someone who feels out of place in the world, struggling to find their identity and purpose. Hanging "upside down from the overpass" symbolizes their inverted perspective and inability to fit into societal norms. They cannot align themselves with the "program" or heed the advice of others. The line "It was like trying to think in reverse" emphasizes their difficulty in navigating a world that expects conformity. They express a desire to avoid a life of indifference and captivity, refusing to fall into apathy or become confined by societal expectations.

The recurring motif of "monsters" represents the internal and external forces that threaten to destroy the narrator's individuality. These monsters can be seen as the pressures to conform, the expectations of society, or even their own self-doubt. The relentless pursuit of these monsters serves as a metaphor for the constant battle the narrator faces to maintain their true self in the face of societal pressure.

The narrator seeks refuge from these monsters by hiding "away under water" and seeking distance from others. This can be interpreted as a desire for solitude and introspection, allowing them to find their own truth. The mention of wanting to be "two hundred thousand years younger" suggests a longing to escape the complexities and struggles of human existence. They desire to be free from the burdens and expectations of the human condition.

Despite their distancing and the monsters that haunt them, the narrator expresses a deep desire to be understood and believed in. They long for someone to hold their beliefs and truths in their head, to validate their experiences and perspectives. This longing for connection and understanding highlights the narrator's yearning for acceptance and validation, even in the face of their unique perspective.

In essence, "Monsters" delves into the struggles of individuality in a conformist society. It speaks to the inner conflicts faced by those who feel out of place and the longing for acceptance and understanding from others.