The song "Like Treasure" by Editors explores themes of nostalgia, the passage of time, the complexities of love, and the pursuit of status and power. The lyrics begin by reflecting on the past and how things have remained unchanged. The line "Ain't it just like the old days?" suggests a sense of familiarity and perhaps a longing for simpler times. The phrase "Wait and see how the hand plays" implies that the future will unfold and reveal its true intentions. The song then delves into the idea of identity and how it can be influenced by external factors. The line "You are what you eat" suggests that our choices and actions shape who we are. The metaphorical phrase "You'll become digested" implies that one's identity may be consumed or overlooked by others. The idea of love being tested rather than felt suggests that love is not always straightforward or easy. The lyrics also touch upon the desire for power and influence, symbolized by the phrase "friends in high places." The line "Hide behind their plastic faces" suggests that people may put on a façade or use connections to mask their true selves. The reference to tearing up the flag and replacing it could represent rebellion against societal norms and the pursuit of individuality. The chorus repeats the idea of burying someone like treasure, suggesting a desire for possession or control over a person or a memory. The artist seems to indicate that they used to idolize someone, represented by the line "I used to want to be you." However, the person being idolized has lost their charm, becoming transparent and devoid of substance. Overall, "Like Treasure" contemplates the cyclical nature of life and relationships, the search for identity, and the allure of power and status. It invites listeners to question the authenticity of their desires and the impact of their choices.
