Meaning of "Clean Living" by The War On Drugs

"Clean Living" explores themes of longing, connection, and the search for meaning in life. The opening lines depict a sense of anticipation and waiting for something significant to happen. The mention of "running through the field" suggests a joyful and carefree pursuit of happiness. The idea of following fading shadows reflects the human tendency to chase after fleeting experiences or desires, even though they may ultimately disappear. The line "there was a red light shining" could symbolize a moment of clarity or realization, illuminating the path towards love and fulfillment. The lyrics also touch on the experience of loneliness and the longing for connection with lines like "I'm alone in life" and "I'm alone at home sometimes." The repeated plea to "show me how you do it" and the desire to be noticed and wanted suggests a yearning for validation and acceptance. The line "I know my way around it, I've been doing alright, and I don't need it back" speaks to a sense of self-sufficiency and resilience, indicating that the narrator has found a way to navigate life without relying on external validation. Overall, the song delves into the universal human desire for connection, the search for meaning, and the resilience to persevere even in the absence of certain desires being fulfilled.