Meaning of "Savages" by That Handsome Devil

The lyrics of "Savages" by That Handsome Devil delve into the existential crisis that often accompanies modern consumer culture. The protagonist is shown to be dissatisfied, feeling a deep unfulfillment that cannot be remedied by material possessions. They find themselves scrolling through social media, looking at pictures of people they don't even like, hoping to find some form of connection or satisfaction. This underscores the superficiality and emptiness of these digital interactions, as they fail to provide any real meaning or happiness. The repeated refrain "there must be something" highlights the longing for something more, a desperate search for fulfillment.

The protagonist then turns to the act of purchasing in an attempt to alleviate their feelings. They express a desire for someone to sell them something that will make them feel better, implying that they believe material possessions can fill the void they feel inside. However, it becomes apparent that these purchases, whether material or even drugs, only provide a temporary escape from the numbness and dissatisfaction. The junk the protagonist's heart is "pumping" fails to make them feel anything, emphasizing the emptiness of relying on external sources for happiness.

The concept of being at war with "every species" and government establishments in the lyrics serves as a metaphorical critique of societal norms and structures. The use of the word "savages" suggests a rebellion against the status quo, with the protagonist feeling at odds with the expectations and pressures imposed by society. The references to ratios, averages, and additives further emphasize the dissatisfaction with the rigid constructs and conformity that pervade modern life.

The closing lines of the song offer a juxtaposition between superficial actions and genuine connection. Holding hands, stretching in yoga pants, recycling, and voting are all presented as positive actions, but the protagonist admits to not understanding their significance or ability to bring true fulfillment. This highlights the disconnection between surface-level actions and genuine emotional connection, suggesting that true happiness and meaning cannot be found solely through these superficial gestures.

Overall, "Savages" portrays a deep longing for fulfillment and meaning in a world dominated by consumerism and superficiality. It questions the effectiveness of material possessions, societal norms, and surface-level interactions in providing genuine happiness and connection.