How Classic Literature Shapes the Themes of Conan Gray’s 'People Watching'

The Literary Lens of Observation

Conan Gray's "People Watching," from his 2022 album Superache, invites listeners into a world where the mundane act of observing others reveals profound truths about love and longing. This introspective track emerges as a modern reflection on themes prevalent in classic literature, drawing parallels with works that explore the human condition through the eyes of the observer.

Central to Gray's narrative is a sense of yearning, a hallmark of romantic literature. Just as F. Scott Fitzgerald’s narrator in The Great Gatsby watches the lavish parties from a distance, Gray's protagonist finds solace in observing couples. The lyric,

"I wish I could be like them, but I don’t know how to love"

, encapsulates this longing for connection, echoing the timeless struggles of characters like Jay Gatsby, who are often left isolated despite being surrounded by others.

Love's Unattainable Ideal

Gray's exploration of love is reminiscent of the tragic romanticism found in the works of Emily Brontë. In Wuthering Heights, Cathy and Heathcliff’s tumultuous relationship serves as a backdrop for themes of unfulfilled desire and emotional turmoil. Similarly, in "People Watching," Gray grapples with the idealization of love, admitting to feelings of inadequacy and distance. The line,

"And I’m alone, but I’m not lonely"

, highlights an emotional dichotomy that mirrors Brontë’s characters, who are often torn between their passions and the societal expectations around them.

The Role of the Observer

The act of people watching itself serves as a narrative device that resonates with many classic literary works. In George Orwell’s 1984, the protagonist Winston Smith observes the world around him, reflecting on the oppressive nature of society. Gray’s observations, while more personal and romantic, also serve to critique the barriers between individuals. His line,

"I see them holding hands, but I can’t touch"

, suggests an awareness of the emotional distance that often exists in modern relationships, akin to the isolation felt by Orwell’s characters.

Modern-Day Tragedy

Furthermore, Gray’s narrative can draw comparisons to Shakespearean themes of unrequited love. The melancholy embedded in "People Watching" evokes the same sense of tragic beauty found in works like Romeo and Juliet. The longing for connection amidst societal constraints resonates with the play’s themes of love thwarted by fate. Gray’s candid reflections on his own shortcomings, as he admits to being “not good enough,” encapsulate the self-doubt that often accompanies love, much like Romeo’s insecurities when he first encounters Juliet.

The Human Condition

At its core, "People Watching" is a meditation on the human condition — a theme steeped in literature. Gray’s ability to weave personal narrative with broader societal observations reflects the same depth found in the works of classic authors. The interplay of self-reflection and external observation invites listeners to consider their own experiences of love and connection.

In the end, Gray’s homage to the art of observation and the bittersweet nature of love aligns seamlessly with the themes explored in classic literature. As he navigates his emotions through the lens of those around him, he crafts a narrative that is both timeless and contemporary, affirming that the struggle for connection is a universal story.