Song meaning of All the Umbrellas in London by The Magnetic Fields

The lyrics of "All the Umbrellas in London" by The Magnetic Fields convey a sense of hopelessness and despair. The protagonist expresses their struggle to find a reason to live and their inability to find any meaning in life. They engage in aimless activities, driving and walking in circles, emphasizing their lack of direction and purpose.

The recurring theme of rain symbolizes the protagonist's emotional turmoil and the challenges they face. The lyrics suggest that external factors, such as umbrellas in London or material possessions like money and drugs in New York and Tokyo, are incapable of alleviating their pain or providing any solace. Despite all possible distractions and escapes, nothing can fill the emptiness within.

There is a sense of resignation in the lyrics, as the protagonist admits to not crying anymore and avoiding social interaction. The darkness and lack of sense they feel reflect a deep disconnection from the world around them.

Overall, the message conveyed by the lyrics is one of despair and the inability to find meaning despite various attempts to distract oneself from the pain. It depicts a state of emotional numbness and highlights the futility of external comforts in the face of internal struggles.