I.D.S.T
Arctic Monkeys Lyrics

The lyrics to “I.D.S.T.” by Arctic Monkeys is quite cryptic and ambiguous. The repetition of the acronym “I.D.S.T.” throughout the song creates a sense of urgency and almost obsession. The song starts with the singer writing “I was here, I.D.S.T” on the bathroom mirror. This denotes a sense of desperation to be remembered or recognized. The act of writing on the bathroom mirror shows an attempt to make a mark, leave a memory or a trace of oneself, which reflects the overall theme of mortality and the inevitable death that awaits everyone.

The lyrics then switch to “Mark for Jenny I.D.S.T.”, which suggests a message specifically for someone named Jenny. This could depict an unrequited love for Jenny, and the use of a drawing compass to write the message conveys the singer’s attempt to pour out his heart for Jenny through a beautifully crafted message. The deliberate use of a compass creates a sense of precision and attention to detail, conveying the depth of the singer’s feelings for Jenny. The repetition of the phrase “I.D.S.T” throughout the song serves almost as a reminder for the fleeting nature of life and the importance of leaving a lasting legacy.