Meaning of "Life Is Simple In The Moonlight" by The Strokes

The lyrics of "Life Is Simple In The Moonlight" delve into the complexities of human emotions and societal norms. The opening lines, "Animals on TV singing about some pain that they once felt / There's no one I disapprove of more or root for more than myself," convey a deep sense of self-doubt and internal conflict. The protagonist struggles with their own flaws and experiences envy towards others, but hesitates to reveal their true emotions.

The repetition of the lines, "I didn't wanna tell you I was jealous, jealous, jealous, what's the point?" reveals a fear of vulnerability and the desire to maintain a façade of happiness. The protagonist avoids expressing their true feelings, perhaps out of fear of rejection or judgment. This speaks to the idea that people often hide their insecurities and emotions in order to fit into societal expectations.

The lyrics further explore the idea of escaping reality and creating a false sense of happiness. The lines, "So we talk about ourselves in hell / To forget the love we never felt / All the old jokes that work so well / Universal truth was the moment's lie," suggest that individuals may engage in self-deception and distractions to avoid confronting their true emotions. This can lead to a sense of emptiness and disconnection from reality.

The song also touches on societal issues and the loss of innocence in America. The lines, "Innocence itself in America today / Is a crime just like Cornel West might say," critique the idea that innocence is no longer valued or preserved. This can be interpreted as a commentary on the social and political climate, where corruption and cynicism have become pervasive.

Overall, "Life Is Simple In The Moonlight" reflects on the complexities of human emotions, the fear of vulnerability, and the societal pressures individuals face to conform to certain expectations. It highlights the internal struggles people face and the desire to escape reality, but also raises questions about the loss of innocence and authenticity in society.