Meaning of "Everything Is Awful" by The Decemberists

The lyrics of "Everything Is Awful" express a sense of gloom and despair, capturing the feeling of being overwhelmed by negativity. The repetition of the phrase "everything is awful" emphasizes the extent to which the singer feels that life is filled with hardship and disappointment. The crashing sound that follows them around symbolizes the destruction of good things, further contributing to the overall negative tone of the song.

The lyrics also touch on themes of resilience and overcoming fear. The lines "Put your fears to rest, You know it's for the best" suggest that accepting difficult circumstances and finding a sense of peace can ultimately be beneficial. The reference to a choir of angels singing "la la la la" adds a touch of irony, as the angelic voices create a contrast with the pessimistic lyrics.

The song then shifts focus to a person who has put in a lot of effort and now finds themselves burdened by their mistakes. The phrase "hoist your own petard" refers to the concept of being undone by one's own actions. This person is contrasted with the idea of hiding in bed, suggesting that sometimes retreating from the world can offer solace and protection from the hardships of life.

The repeated refrain of "everything is awful" and the inclusion of phrases like "lay down your heavy head" and "let those voices ring" contribute to a sense of exhaustion and defeat. Despite the song's bleak outlook, the repetition of "la la la la" in the background adds a touch of whimsy and lightness, underscoring the unpredictable and chaotic nature of life.

The song ends with a request for quiet, a desire for some respite from the noise and chaos. By concluding in this way, the lyrics suggest that finding calm and peace of mind amidst the turmoil of everyday life is a challenge. Overall, "Everything Is Awful" portrays a deeply pessimistic view of the world, highlighting the struggles and hardships that can overshadow one's existence.