Meaning of Brand New City by Mitski

The Mitski song titled 'Brand New City' delves into the depths of emotional turmoil and personal struggles. The overall theme of the song revolves around the feeling of deterioration and the desperation to find solace or escape from the overwhelming burdens of life. Mitski's introspective lyrics capture the essence of this theme, creating a haunting atmosphere that resonates with listeners.In the first verse, Mitski sings, "Think my brain is rotting in places, I think my heart is ready to die, I think my body is falling in pieces, I think my blood is passing me by." These lines convey a sense of despair and hopelessness. The lyrics suggest a disintegration of the self, both mentally and physically. It touches on the idea of feeling disconnected from one's own existence, where one is merely an observer of their own deterioration.The chorus, which repeats the line, "Honey, what'd you take? What'd you take?" emphasizes a search for answers and a desire to understand what led to this state of despair. The repetition and urgency in Mitski's voice further highlight the magnitude of the question. It could be interpreted as seeking accountability, questioning what external forces might have contributed to such emotional turmoil.In the second verse, Mitski sings, "I think my fate is losing its patience, I think the ground is pulling me down, I think my life is losing momentum, I think my ways are wearing me down." These lyrics explore the idea of feeling trapped, as if one's destiny is predetermined and there is little control over the circumstances of life. The mention of losing momentum and feeling worn down suggests a heavy burden that gradually takes its toll.The bridge of the song offers an unexpected twist with the lyrics, "But if I gave up on being pretty, I wouldn't know how to be alive, I should move to a brand new city and teach myself how to die." Here, the theme takes a reflective turn, contemplating the pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty. Mitski suggests that forsaking the need to be visually appealing would lead to a loss of identity, leaving one unsure of how to live. The idea of moving to a brand new city to teach oneself how to die alludes to the possibility of reinvention or finding a new perspective on life.Overall, 'Brand New City' explores themes of decay, desperation, and the search for understanding. Mitski's poignant lyrics paint a vivid picture of emotional struggle and provide listeners with a raw and introspective experience. The song speaks to the universal human experience of grappling with one's place in the world and the immense weight that life can impose. It urges introspection and encourages the pursuit of self-discovery amidst the darkness.