Meaning of Abbey by Mitski

In Mitski's hauntingly beautiful song, "Abbey," the artist explores themes of longing, identity, and the constant search for something more. Through evocative lyrics and a poignant melody, Mitski delves deep into the depths of human desire and the restless yearning that defines our existence.The song opens with the repeated assertion, "I am hungry, I have been hungry, I was born hungry, What do I need?" This line immediately sets the tone for the overarching theme of the song – the insatiable hunger that resides within each of us. It speaks to our innate desire for something beyond what we currently possess, whether it be love, success, or simply a sense of purpose. The line's repetitiveness emphasizes the universal nature of this longing, as if it is an intrinsic part of our human experience.Building on this theme, Mitski then sings, "I am something, I have been something, I was born something, What could I be?" This lyric explores the concept of identity, and how we constantly strive to define ourselves. It highlights the inherent curiosity within us, forever questioning what lies beyond our current limitations. This yearning to discover our potential and embrace our true selves drives us to continuously seek new experiences and possibilities.Throughout the song, Mitski employs a clever metaphor, referring to a light that can only be seen when there is darkness within. This poignant imagery suggests that in the midst of our deepest despair, there is often a glimmer of hope or inspiration that emerges. It speaks to the resilience of the human spirit, finding solace and strength within the darkest moments. This notion is further reinforced by the line, "There is a dream that I sometimes see, That only appears in the dark of sleep." Here, the dream represents the possibilities that we envision and strive for, and its occurrence in the realm of sleep suggests that it may only manifest when we allow ourselves to let go of conscious constraints.Another noteworthy line is, "I am waiting, I have been waiting, I was born waiting, I was born waiting, For that something." This lyric explores the idea of anticipation and the patience required in the pursuit of our desires. It implies that the state of waiting is not merely a passive act, but an active engagement with our hopes and aspirations. It suggests that through patience and perseverance, we can eventually attain that "something" we have been yearning for.In the second half of the song, Mitski sings, "Just to want something, I was born something, I was born." This line encapsulates the essence of the song's themes, as it highlights the fundamental human experience of desire and the perpetual quest for fulfillment. It acknowledges that wanting is an inherent part of our existence, constantly propelling us forward in our journey through life.Ultimately, "Abbey" is a beautifully introspective song that delves into the depths of human longing and the ceaseless pursuit of something more. It captures the essence of the human condition, where desire and identity intertwine, driving us to search for meaning and purpose. With each evocative lyric, Mitski weaves a rich tapestry of themes that explore the complexities of our longing, serving as a poignant reminder of our shared human experience.