Meaning of "Viva Discordia" by That Handsome Devil
The lyrics of "Viva Discordia" by That Handsome Devil delve into the lives of different individuals who are caught in experiences of chaos, rebellion, and societal disillusionment. Lucy, the goth chick, epitomizes rebellion as she spits in the face of a jock at a mosh pit and tears through the mall. However, her acts of defiance are ultimately shallow, expressed through her preference for art shows over real fights. The chaos that ensues in her wake is depicted through vivid imagery, such as how she beats her face down till she looks like a Picasso. This chaotic nature extends to her brother and other characters in the song.
The introduction of Mona from Sedona, a seemingly free-spirited and adventurous character, adds another layer to the song. Her journey from Arizona to California in a beat-up Toyota reflects an escape from her current circumstances. She immerses herself in reading Deepak Chopra and singing Oasis's "Champaign Supernova," possibly to find a sense of meaning or escape from her reality. However, even Mona's journey takes a dark turn when we discover her kidney has been sold in Tokyo. This reveals the desperate measures she has resorted to survive, completely upending the initial image of a carefree traveler.
The lyrics also touch upon political themes, such as the Iraq War and the alleged weapons of mass destruction. The reference to "Daddy's little president" and the failure to find evidence of these weapons signifies a sense of disillusionment with political leaders and their motivations. The mention of an Army helicopter and the pursuit of Osama Bin Laden further emphasizes the chaos and confusion surrounding these political events.
Overall, the song's meaning revolves around the idea that chaos and disillusionment are pervasive in various aspects of life, including personal relationships, societal issues, and political events. The characters portrayed in the lyrics all experience their own unique forms of chaos, which ultimately converge to paint a vivid picture of a world spinning out of control.