Meaning of Elegantly Wasted by INXS

The INXS song 'Elegantly Wasted' is a captivating track that delves into the complexities of life and the pursuit of the elusive "good life." With its catchy melody and thought-provoking lyrics, the song explores the idea of living extravagantly without truly finding fulfillment. Let's dive deeper into some of the standout lyrics and uncover the unexpected and imaginative themes they help develop.The opening lyrics, "Look at all that shines, baby's down on the world, and she knows it," set the stage for the overarching theme of seeking something more. It introduces us to a character who is aware of the superficial allure of material possessions and societal success. This theme of seeking fulfillment through external validation is further emphasized in the line, "If your spirit's running, why don't we make it rain like we used to?" Here, the rain serves as a metaphor for rejuvenation and finding true joy, suggesting that the protagonist used to have a more vibrant and fulfilling life.Another intriguing lyric in the song is, "We run, we hide, we wait, and we want the good life." This line encapsulates the yearning for something better, for a life that is not ordinary. The pursuit of the "good life" is a universal desire, and INXS explores its allure and consequences. It poses the question of whether the "good life" truly exists or if it's merely an illusory concept built on societal expectations.Moving onto the chorus, the repetition of the phrase "Elegantly wasted" brings up an interesting theme – that of excess and decadence. The juxtaposition of elegance and waste challenges traditional notions of what it means to live a fulfilled life. It suggests that even in the midst of opulence and extravagance, there can be a hollowness or lack of purpose.The line, "Look at all the crimes, baby's down on the world cause she owns it," shifts the focus to a different perspective. It introduces the idea that the pursuit of the "good life" can lead to a sense of entitlement and detachment from the consequences of one's actions. This theme of disregard for societal norms is further explored in the lyric, "Making up her life, nothing more, nothing less makes it Voodoo." It suggests that the protagonist may be fabricating a persona or using charm and manipulation to navigate through life, but ultimately, this façade is empty and lacks substance.Another powerful lyric, "We look at all that shines, baby's down on the world, and she knows it," highlights the preoccupation with external appearances and the constant comparison to others. This theme of self-reflection and self-awareness runs throughout the song, reinforcing the idea that true fulfillment cannot solely be achieved through material possessions and societal recognition.The final line, "Feels right, feels right, Elegantly wasted," adds an interesting layer to the song's themes. It suggests that despite the potential emptiness of pursuing the "good life," there is still a sense of exhilaration and enjoyment in indulging in excess. It brings up the notion that perhaps the protagonist is aware of the futility but is unable to resist the allure and excitement that comes with living on the edge.'Elegantly Wasted' is a song that invites introspection and contemplation. It challenges the conventional narratives surrounding success and fulfillment. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, INXS explores the complexities of the human desire for a life that transcends the ordinary. It serves as a reminder that true fulfillment lies not in the pursuit of external validation but in meaningful connections, self-discovery, and introspection. So let us ponder the concept of the "good life" and its inherent pitfalls while appreciating the catchy rhythm and rich lyrical tapestry that INXS has gifted us.