Meaning of Guidelines by Mac Miller
The Mac Miller song "Guidelines" delves into various themes that explore the artist's mindset and experiences. The overall theme of the song seems to revolve around self-expression, personal growth, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life. Miller presents his thoughts on navigating life's challenges, maintaining a positive mindset, and finding joy in the face of adversity. Through his lyrical storytelling, he reflects on his journey, embracing imperfections, and striving to live authentically.One standout lyric in the song is "Feelin' like Michael, but you really like Tito." This line captures the theme of self-perception and external validation. Miller navigates between his own feelings of greatness, referencing the iconic Michael Jackson, and the desire for acceptance from others, symbolized by Tito Jackson. This portrays the struggle many individuals face when seeking validation and grappling with their self-image.Another notable line is "I spend nights lookin' like a deer in the headlights, sweat like I'm runnin' up ten flights of steps with the left, right." This line depicts the theme of anxiety and the challenges of facing one's fears. Miller articulates his experience of feeling overwhelmed and hyper-aware, as if frozen in the face of daunting circumstances. He acknowledges the physical and mental toll this takes on him, with the vivid imagery of sweat trickling down his face while traversing the metaphorical stairs of life.The line "On par with Charlotte, got 'em stuck in the web" adds a layer of complexity to the overall theme. It speaks to the impact of influence, manipulation, and the power dynamics that entrap individuals. Miller likens himself to a master manipulator, Charlotte, from the children's book "Charlotte's Web." This image serves as a metaphor for the way he navigates the music industry and asserts his prowess as an artist. However, it also suggests the potential pitfalls of fame and success, where artists can become entangled in a web of expectations and societal pressures.Another intriguing lyric is "A little oochie wally got you feelin' like the man now." This line explores the theme of materialism and its influence on one's sense of self-worth. Miller criticizes the superficial pursuit of wealth and the fleeting satisfaction it brings. He suggests that indulging in transient material pleasures distracts individuals from achieving a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.Throughout the song, Miller weaves existential reflections with grounded storytelling, creating a poetic tapestry that invites listeners to contemplate their own experiences. These standout lyrics highlight themes of self-perception, anxiety, influence, materialism, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Ultimately, the song's overarching theme centers around growth, resilience, and finding solace in the midst of chaos. It encourages listeners to follow their own guidelines, embrace their uniqueness, and seek genuine fulfillment in their journey through life.