Meaning of "Apartment Song" by The Tragically Hip

The lyrics of "Apartment Song" delve into the idea of being detached from one's environment and the routine activities that take place when one is not present. The song describes a woman who is meticulous about her appearance and her living space, indicating a certain level of vanity and control over her surroundings. The repetition of the phrase "what our apartment does when we're not around does not concern us" highlights a sense of disconnection and lack of interest in the actions that occur in one's absence. The woman in the song is portrayed as someone who cares deeply about her image and the impression she leaves on others, evidenced by her disdain for her feet and her attention to detail in hosting gatherings. The mention of the clock, mirror, walls, books, and other inanimate objects in the apartment emphasizes a sense of order and control that the woman imposes on her living space. Overall, the lyrics of "Apartment Song" touch on themes of vanity, detachment, and control in a domestic setting.