Kids
♪ MGMT Lyrics

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You were a child
Crawling on your knees toward him
Making momma so proud
But your voice is too loud
We like to watch you laughing
Picking insects off of plants
No time to think of consequences

Control yourself
Take only what you need from it
A family of trees wanting to be haunted

Control yourself
Take only what you need from it
A family of trees wanting to be haunted

The water is warm
But it's sending me shivers
A baby is born
Crying out for attention
Memories fade
Like looking through a fogged mirror
Decisions too
Decisions are made
Decisions are made and not bought
But I thought this wouldn't hurt a lot
I guess not

Control yourself
Take only what you need from it
A family of trees wanting to be haunted

Control yourself
Take only what you need from it
A family of trees wanting to be haunted

Control yourself
Take only what you need from it
A family of trees wanting to be haunted

Control yourself
Take only what you need from it
A family of trees wanting to be haunted

Control yourself
Take only what you need from it
A family of trees wanting to be haunted

Control yourself

Take only what you need from it
A family of trees wanting to be haunted

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of MGMT's "Kids" are full of imagery and metaphors that can be read in many different ways. The opening lines "You were a child, crawling on your knees toward him, making momma so proud" can be interpreted as the innocence and naivety of childhood, being led towards dangerous or questionable situations by a figure of authority. The line "But your voice is too loud" suggests that the child is unruly or disruptive, and this is something that people may take pleasure in watching. This could be a commentary on society's tendency to exploit or sensationalize the misfortunes of others, particularly young people.

The chorus, "Control yourself, take only what you need from it, a family of trees wanting to be haunted" can be interpreted in a few different ways. It could be read as a cautionary message about greed and excess, urging listeners to be mindful of their consumption and only take what they need. The "family of trees wanting to be haunted" could be seen as a metaphor for the natural world, which is often exploited and mistreated by humans. The line "wanting to be haunted" suggests that the trees are looking for a way to be remembered or cared for, which could be interpreted as a call for people to take action towards preserving the environment.

The second verse shifts to a more personal tone, with the lines "The water is warm but it's sending me shivers, a baby is born crying out for attention, memories fade like looking through a fogged mirror" evoking feelings of discomfort, anxiety, and loss. The repeated phrase "Control yourself" seems to be both a mantra and a warning, urging listeners to be mindful of their actions and the impact they have on the world around them.

Overall, "Kids" is a complex and thought-provoking song that invites multiple interpretations. Its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm invite listeners in, while the lyrics offer a challenging and critical perspective on society.

Line by Line Meaning

You were a child
You existed as a young, unspoiled being

Crawling on your knees toward him
You were physically helpless and dependent on someone or something else

Making momma so proud
Your parental figure experienced a sense of accomplishment due to your actions

But your voice is too loud
Your behavior may be causing a disturbance or drawing unwanted attention

We like to watch you laughing
Others find enjoyment in observing your natural state of happiness

Picking insects off of plants
You are engaged in simple, natural activities

No time to think of consequences
You are living in the moment and not considering the potential outcomes of your actions

The water is warm
The environment or situation appears inviting and comfortable

But it's sending me shivers
Despite the initial positive impression, there is something unsettling or uncomfortable

A baby is born
A new life has entered the world

Crying out for attention
The new life may require support, nurturing, or guidance

Memories fade
Recollections of past events or experiences become less clear over time

Like looking through a fogged mirror
Attempting to recall the past is difficult and hazy

Decisions too
Choices made in the past may now be unclear or not easily understood

Decisions are made
Actions taken in the past are a result of choices made

Decisions are made and not bought
Choices are not able to be purchased, but are a result of personal agency

But I thought this wouldn't hurt a lot
Expectations were set that did not match the actual outcome, resulting in discomfort or pain

I guess not
The expectation was not met and the reality is now apparent

Control yourself
Maintain self-discipline and restraint

Take only what you need from it
Only use what is necessary or valuable, do not overindulge