Meaning of The End by Mitski

In the haunting song 'The End' by Mitski, the overarching theme explores the concept of a detrimental task that requires a person of questionable nature to see it through. The lyrics take listeners on a journey through the mind of a character who embraces their darker side and uses it to fulfill a significant mission. While examining the lyrics, one can uncover unexpected and imaginative themes that deepen the understanding of the song's central message.The song's dialogue verse immediately sets the tone, introducing the idea of a job that necessitates someone who is considered a "bastard" to complete it. This first lyric reveals a theme of internal conflict and the acceptance of one's flaws. It explores the notion that sometimes, the tasks we find ourselves facing require us to tap into our darker nature in order to succeed. This theme challenges the traditional belief that one must always act with moral righteousness, suggesting that in certain situations, a person's darker side can be an advantageous asset.Moving on to the instrumentally-driven chorus, the absence of lyrics itself becomes a significant element. The absence of words creates a sense of emptiness and suspended anticipation. This emptiness represents the void that the character experiences as they delve deeper into their mission. It symbolizes the detachment from their former life and the world around them. This theme highlights the isolating nature of the task at hand and the personal sacrifices one must make when undertaking such an endeavor.In the second dialogue verse, the lyrics express uncertainty and a lack of words to articulate the complexities of the mission. This theme explores the idea that there are moments in life when words fail us. It emphasizes the indescribable nature of certain experiences and the inherent difficulty in expressing them adequately. This theme suggests that even though the character may struggle to put their mission into words, it holds profound meaning for them.The instrumental bridge further delves into the character's state of mind. The absence of lyrics once again sets the stage for introspection and introspective exploration. The bridge represents a pivotal moment of contemplation where the character grapples with the weight of their actions and their inevitable consequences. This theme examines the internal struggle one faces when willingly embarking on a morally ambivalent journey, forcing the character to confront the price they must pay for their choices.The concluding dialogue and outro lyrics provide a thought-provoking twist to the overarching theme. The statement that just because someone is dead doesn't mean their mission is complete suggests an exploration of the aftermath of the character's actions. This theme alludes to the lingering presence of their darkness in the world even after their own demise. It implies that the consequences of their mission extend far beyond their time on earth. The theme challenges the notion of closure and explores the cyclical nature of certain quests, reminding us that actions have lasting effects that ripple through time.In summary, 'The End' by Mitski delves into the complexities of a morally ambiguous mission, exploring unexpected themes such as accepting one's darker nature, the emptiness and detachment that arise from intense focus, the power of words to convey complex experiences, the internal struggle with the consequences of one's actions, and the lasting impact of a mission even after one's demise. The song immerses listeners in a thought-provoking and imaginative journey, ultimately highlighting the multifaceted nature of confronting and embracing the darker aspects of oneself.