Meaning of "This Is the World of the Theater" by The New Pornographers

"This Is the World of the Theater" by The New Pornographers seems to explore themes of inner conflict, identity, and societal expectations. The speaker expresses a struggle to navigate life in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. The reference to "Kid gloves, and stranger loves you've known" seems to suggest a sense of trying to fit into certain roles or relationships, even if they feel foreign. The repeated question of whether it's too late to embrace one's true self and break free from societal constraints highlights the internal struggle between conforming to expectations and pursuing personal authenticity. The mention of the "world of the theatre" could symbolize life as a performance, where individuals often feel pressured to play roles and put on masks to please others. Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of yearning for self-discovery and a desire to break free from societal norms to live authentically.