The song "All American" by Juliet Simms embodies themes of struggle, loss, and the search for identity. Simms reflects on the state of the world, wondering where it all went wrong and why the world seems to have stopped turning. She acknowledges that if you haven't heard about the problems by now, you'll certainly hear about them in the morning. Simms mentions how she couldn't help herself, leading to speculation and gossip, causing others to talk about her. Despite the difficulties faced by those around her, there appears to be a lack of knowledge or understanding, as everyone continues to hurt. The phrase "closing time, they turn off the lights, and they take 'em down" suggests a sense of finality and the end of something. It could symbolize the end of an era, where problems and issues are left unsolved. Simms refers to the concept of the "All American," which implies a stereotypical image of the ideal American individual or family. However, she suggests that even within this idealized notion, things can spiral out of control. The references to an "all American girl" and "daddy's little world spinning out of control" depict the breakdown of an idyllic life. Simms expresses a desire for a fresh start and apologizes for the struggles faced by her friends. She recognizes that there were signs of approaching chaos but acknowledges that people often crave material possessions despite the consequences. Feeling trapped and realizing it's too late to escape, Simms hopes that the world will forget about her and dreams of being sent away to space, metaphorically representing freedom and escape from her troubles. The chorus refers to the loneliness and emptiness Simms feels, with the lights being turned off and taken down. It emphasizes the fallacy of the perfect American dream and the feeling of being lost and out of control. Simms describes her continuous attempts to find balance and happiness, but acknowledges the difficulty of doing so. She longs for a sense of paradise but laments her inability to find it, often hindered by her own blindness. Despite her struggles, she remains determined to get back on her feet and keep moving forward. In summary, "All American" delves into the disillusionment and hardships within an idealized American image. Simms acknowledges the flaws and turmoil present in society and within herself, expressing a longing for a fresh start and freedom from the chaos.
