Meaning of "Panty Lies" by Sonic Youth

"Panty Lies" delves into the complex relationship between appearance, identity, and society's expectations. The repeating lines about not wearing underwear and hiding panty lines can be seen as a metaphor for how women often feel the pressure to present themselves in a certain way, sometimes sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The mention of looking in the mirror and pretending to be someone else reflects the idea of performance and the masks people wear in their daily lives. The song questions the concept of identity by playing with the idea of inside and outside, hinting at how external appearances may not always match internal feelings or thoughts. Overall, "Panty Lies" seems to critique the superficiality of societal expectations and the ways in which women navigate these pressures.