Meaning of Buttons by Mac Miller

Mac Miller's song "Buttons" explores the theme of maintaining composure and putting on a facade despite internal struggles. The chorus sets the tone, highlighting how the narrator avoids answering calls and isolates themselves, spending their nights at the studio and sleeping on the couch. This portrays a sense of detachment from external distractions, urging listeners to delve deeper into their own personal experiences.One standout lyric in the song that helps develop this theme is "Days get mixed up, schedules get switched up, can't be two places at once, so I take a hit of the spliff that I lit up." Here, Mac Miller describes the overwhelming nature of life and the inability to be in control of every aspect. He turns to drugs as a coping mechanism, using them to temporarily forget about his responsibilities and obligations. This theme of seeking relief and escapism from the pressures of life adds depth to the overall narrative and resonates with listeners who may have similar experiences.Another thought-provoking lyric that contributes to the overarching theme is "I swear my life is on Blu-ray, welcome to doomsday. The world needs a hero and I am your Bruce Wayne." In these lines, Mac Miller reflects on the weight of his public persona and the expectations placed upon him. He compares himself to the iconic fictional character Bruce Wayne, who takes on the responsibility of protecting others as his alter ego Batman despite his own personal struggles. This metaphor emphasizes the pressure Mac Miller feels to be a hero to his fans and maintain a composed image despite his own internal battles.Additionally, the lyric "I run around with open scissors, they taking pictures" presents an unexpected metaphor. Here, the open scissors symbolize the potential danger and vulnerability that come with exposing oneself to the world. Mac Miller acknowledges that his every move is being watched and scrutinized, leaving him feeling exposed. This lyric reveals the struggle of navigating fame and the constant need to protect oneself while still staying true to who they are.Furthermore, the line "I could lose my head, it grow instead, gets only bigger" highlights the artist's realization that despite the challenges and setbacks he encounters, he continues to grow and evolve. This concept of resilience ties back to the central theme of the song about staying composed in the face of adversity. Mac Miller embraces the idea that even through hardships, he can persevere and use his experiences to fuel personal growth.Overall, "Buttons" encompasses a range of imaginative and unexpected themes that all contribute to the overarching theme of maintaining composure and putting on a facade. Through exploring concepts of escapism, the pressure of public image, vulnerability in the spotlight, and personal growth, Mac Miller presents a complex and layered narrative that encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the masks they wear in their own lives.