Meaning of Everything Now (Continued) by Arcade Fire

The Arcade Fire song "Everything Now (Continued)" explores themes of consumerism, superficiality, and the emptiness that can come from pursuing material possessions and instant gratification. The lyrics paint a picture of a society obsessed with having everything, constantly seeking more and never being satisfied. Each lyric in the song contributes to this overarching theme and sheds light on different aspects of the issue at hand.The song opens with the lines, "Every inch of sky's got a star, every inch of skin's got a scar. I guess that you've got everything now." Here, the juxtaposition of the beauty of the sky and the imperfection of scars suggests that even though individuals may seem to have everything on the surface, there are hidden flaws and struggles. This notion challenges the idea that material possessions can lead to true fulfillment.The subsequent lines, "Every inch of space in your head is filled up with the things that you read. I guess you've got everything now," point to the overwhelming influx of information and distractions present in our modern society. While some may perceive this as having access to everything, it actually leads to a cluttered mind and an inability to focus on what truly matters. The pursuit of knowledge and consuming information can sometimes become an obsession, taking away from genuine experiences and connections.Another lyrical moment that stands out is, "Every inch of road's got a sign, and every boy uses the same mind. I pledge allegiance to everything now." Here, the song highlights the conformity that pervades society, particularly in the realm of consumerism. The repetition of the same mind symbolizes the herd mentality, where individuals are driven by the pressure to fit in and possess the latest trends. This blind adherence to materialism is further emphasized by the pledge of allegiance to everything, suggesting a loss of individuality and genuine desires.As the song progresses, the lyrics tackle the concept of fake happiness and the need to constantly put on a facade. The lines, "'Cause every time you smile it's a fake, stop pretending, you've got everything now," reveal the emptiness and insincerity behind the relentless pursuit of material possessions. The smile becomes a metaphor for the artificiality that stems from this unattainable quest for everything.The song takes a poignant turn with the lines, "