Song meaning of Digital Self by Teenage Wrist

The lyrics to "Digital Self" by Teenage Wrist convey a sense of disconnection and alienation in the increasingly digital world. The song starts off by expressing the struggle of trying to fit in and please others, but ultimately feeling misunderstood and unable to fully participate in social interactions ("A casted smile, but couldn't read the room"). 

The lyrics then touch on the idea of selling one's personal rights and attention to the constant demands of the digital age ("Sold my rights, the market price of my attention grew"). This suggests a loss of individuality and the commodification of personal experiences. It reflects the pressure to conform and the trade-off between personal freedom and the lure of a comfortable but isolated existence ("Traded my boredom for a comfortable cell").

The chorus hints at a growing disconnect from reality and a disassociation with one's true self, as well as a disinterest in the world ("Disassociated, spaced out, inside a shallow and disinterested world"). The reference to a "machine dream" questions where one's true identity lies and highlights the erosion of relationships and emotional connections in a hyperconnected society.

The song concludes with the idea that those who feel like outsiders are seen as impostors and are encouraged to stay hidden ("Any outsider is an imposter, stick to the side roads, no one can spot you"). This speaks to the difficulty of finding authenticity and acceptance in a digital world that values conformity and surface-level interactions.

Overall, "Digital Self" conveys a poignant message about the impact of technology and social media on our sense of self, relationships, and society as a whole. It highlights the need for genuine connections and the dangers of losing touch with our true identities in a world that encourages shallow engagement and constant digital presence.