I would rather be alone than pretend I feel alright: Ready To Start, by Arcade Fire

 lamusicblog.com

When I listened to Arcade Fire's first album Funeral, I was amazed; it's opening track Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels), for example, is a musical and emotional tour de force that one rarely comes across in the indie genre. Arcade Fire have of course gone a long way since then, particularly with their latest and utterly successful album The Suburbs, an aptly titled subtle critique of suburban desperation. Inasmuch as it is pleasant to see the band receiving the recognition they deserve, I must admit that musically I wasn't moved just as much this time around. Ready To Start, however, has become a great favourite of mine, both as a bold reflection upon the band's current condition, and an insightful interpretation of compliance and the courage it takes to defy it.

 

If the businessmen drink my blood

Like the kids in art school said they would

Then I guess I'll just begin again

You say can we still be friends

If I was scared, I would

And f I was bored, you know I would

And f I was yours, but I'm not

All the kids have always known

That the emperor wears no clothes

But they bow down to him anyway

'Cause it's better than being alone

If I was scared, I would

And if I was bored, you know I would

And if I was yours, but I'm not

Now you're knocking at my door

Saying please come out with us tonight

But I would rather be alone

Than pretend I feel alright

If the businessmen drink my blood

Like the kids in art school said they would

Then I guess I'll just begin again

You say can we still be friends

If I was scared, I would

And if I was pure, you know I would

And if I was yours, but I'm not

Now I'm ready to start

 

If I was scared, I would

And if I was pure, you know I would

And if I was yours, but I'm not

Now I'm ready to start

 

Now I'm ready to start

I would rather be wrong

Than live in the shadows of your song

My mind is open wide

And now I'm ready to start

Now I'm ready to start

My mind is open wide

And now I'm ready to start

Not sure you'll open the door

And step out into the dark

Now I'm ready