The song "Courtship of America" by Hunters & Collectors is a critique of the American dream and the pursuit of success and fame. The lyrics portray a cautionary tale about the consequences of blindly chasing fame and fortune, as well as the shallow and fickle nature of relationships and friendships in the pursuit of success. The song starts by describing fair weather friends who shower the protagonist with admiration and support, only to abandon them when their circumstances change. The protagonist's dreams of success and wealth are shattered, and they find themselves stuck in a cycle of uncertainty and fear. The chorus urges the protagonist, and by extension, the listeners, to take a chance and not be afraid of failure. The phrase "scratch my back" is symbolic of helping each other out and forming mutual beneficial relationships to achieve success. The mention of seeing each other in America represents the pursuit of the American dream and the idealized image of success associated with it. The lyrics also criticize the exploitation and manipulation within the industry, likening it to a crime scene where everything is taken if the right combination is given. The song suggests that success often comes at a cost, as the protagonist encounters desperation and cheap conversation while navigating the competitive and cutthroat nature of the industry. The reference to Times Square and the stray sniffing around symbolizes the loneliness and isolation one can feel amidst the hustle and bustle of a big city and the superficial relationships formed in such an environment. The song ends by emphasizing the temporary nature of success and the need for constant effort and persuasion to maintain it. The lyrics also touch upon the exploitation of resources and the idea of taking advantage of opportunities before they are gone. Overall, "Courtship of America" serves as a cautionary tale against blindly pursuing success and friendship without considering the true value of trust, genuine connections, and personal fulfillment. It sheds light on the darker side of the pursuit of fame and the sacrifices often made in its pursuit.
