Meaning of Dominoes by Lorde

The song "Dominoes" by Lorde explores a wealth of themes, all presented through its poetic lyrics. At its core, the song delves into the concept of change and the way it shapes our lives. Through unexpected and imaginative themes, each lyric enhances the exploration of this overarching theme, inviting listeners to reflect upon the fleeting nature of existence and the continuous cycle of reinvention.In the first verse, the line "I heard that you were doing yoga with Uma Thurman's mother just outside of Woodstock" hints at the idea of seeking enlightenment and growth. Yoga, a practice rooted in self-discovery and introspection, symbolizes the protagonist's quest for inner transformation. The mention of Uma Thurman's mother, a figure connected to the famous Woodstock festival, adds an element of nostalgia and highlights the cyclical nature of change.The pre-chorus lyrics, "Just another phase you're rushing on through, go all New Age, outrunning your blues," portray the protagonist's tendency to constantly seek new experiences as a means to escape their internal struggles. The idea of New Age practices emphasizes the allure of spirituality and alternative ideologies. Through this, the song suggests that change can be both a liberating pursuit and a way to avoid confronting deeper emotional issues.The chorus lyrics, "Fifty gleaming chances in a row, then I watch you flick them down like dominoes," introduce the concept of missed opportunities and the consequences of one's actions. The lyrics imply that the protagonist, observing another individual's perpetual cycle of restarts, recognizes the potential for growth that is repeatedly relinquished. This theme of recurring chances builds upon the broader idea that change can be cyclical and that patterns may persist if actions remain unchanged.In verse two, the line "It's strange to see you smoking marijuana, you used to do the most cocaine of anyone I'd ever met" alludes to the evolving nature of vices and the temporary nature of habits. It suggests that as individuals grow and change, their preferences and behaviors also transform. The contrast between marijuana and cocaine further emphasizes the fleeting nature of indulgences and the transient satisfaction they provide.Continuing with the exploration of change, the lyrics in the second pre-chorus state, "Just another phase you're shooting on through, the whole world changes right around you." This lyric implies that the protagonist's subject is constantly seeking the next phase without fully grasping the ramifications of their actions. It suggests that change is not always a personal process but can impact the surrounding world, causing a ripple effect on relationships and connections.The repetition of the chorus reinforces the idea that missed opportunities are detrimental to personal growth. The mention of Mr. Start-Again points to an individual trapped in an endless cycle of beginnings, unable to break free from their self-defeating patterns. It raises the notion that change requires a willingness to learn from past experiences and to break the cycle of repeating the same mistakes.In conclusion, the song "Dominoes" by Lorde adeptly explores the overarching theme of change. Through imaginative and unexpected themes woven into the lyrics, the song prompts listeners to consider the fleeting nature of existence and the importance of seizing opportunities for personal growth. It serves as a reminder to break free from cyclical patterns, embrace inner transformation, and navigate the complex journey of change with mindfulness and intention.