Meaning of Cornerstone by Arctic Monkeys

The Arctic Monkeys' song titled "Cornerstone" is a melancholic and introspective piece that explores themes of longing, loss, and the disconnection between reality and perception. As the lyrics unfold, the listener is taken on a journey filled with vivid imagery and unique encounters, each contributing to the overarching theme of the song.One standout lyric in the song is "Thought I saw you in the battleship, but it was only a look-a-like." This line introduces the concept of mistaken identity, highlighting the protagonist's desperate attempt to replace someone they have lost. The battleship represents a grand and formidable presence, indicating that the person being sought after was significant in the protagonist's life. However, it turns out to be an imposter, emphasizing the protagonist's fruitless search for a replacement.Another noteworthy lyric is "She was close, close enough to be your ghost, but my chances turned to toast." Here, the theme of longing is explored as the protagonist encounters someone who resembles the person they're desperately seeking. The use of the word "ghost" suggests a presence that is haunting and intangible, symbolizing the lingering memory of the lost individual. The line "my chances turned to toast" expresses the protagonist's missed opportunity to reconnect or recapture what was lost."I thought I saw you in the parrot's beak, messing with the smoke alarm" is another evocative line that sparks the imagination. The parrot's beak represents a place of confinement, symbolizing the protagonist's entrapment in their thoughts and memories. The smoke alarm being tampered with suggests a disruption in the protagonist's perception of reality. This lyric explores the internal struggle of the protagonist, torn between holding onto the memory of the lost person and the need to move forward.Throughout the song, the protagonist encounters various individuals who resemble the person they are searching for. These encounters serve as a metaphorical representation of the protagonist's journey to find closure and acceptance. Each encounter deepens the exploration of themes such as longing, the search for identity, and the complexities of memory.The repetition of the lyric "And i elongated my lift home, yeah i let him go the long way round, i smelt your scent on the seatbelt, and kept my shortcuts to myself" reinforces the theme of longing and the desire for connection. The elongated lift home symbolizes the protagonist's reluctance to let go of the past, choosing to take a longer route to hold onto the memories. The scent on the seatbelt serves as a reminder of the person they've lost, and the decision to keep the shortcuts to themselves speaks to a personal journey of introspection and self-discovery.Lastly, the protagonist's encounter with the sister in the cornerstone reveals a glimmer of hope and acceptance. "When i saw that she was on her own, I thought she might understand" suggests a shared understanding and empathy between the protagonist and the sister. The cornerstone represents a foundation, a place of support and stability. The interaction with the sister signifies the possibility of finding solace in someone who genuinely comprehends the protagonist's longing and turmoil.In conclusion, "Cornerstone" by the Arctic Monkeys explores themes of longing, loss, and the search for identity. Through vivid and creative imagery, the song delves into the complexities of memory, mistaken identity, and the struggle to let go. Each standout lyric contributes to the overall theme, weaving together a tapestry of emotions and introspection. "Cornerstone" ultimately invites listeners to reflect on their own personal journeys of healing and self-discovery when faced with loss and longing.