Shortlings

Meaning of Fireworks - Mitski

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Mitski's song "Fireworks" explores the complexities of coping with deep sadness and finding solace amidst everyday life. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who has learned to function in their day-to-day routine, but the sadness remains ever-present, just beneath the surface.

The opening lines, "One morning, this sadness will fossilize / And I will forget how to cry," set the stage for a story of resilience and survival. This line suggests that the sadness is not fleeting, but rather a constant presence that eventually becomes a part of who they are. Yet, it also hints at the possibility of healing and moving forward, as the speaker imagines a future where the sadness will become a distant memory.

The lines "I'll keep going to work, and you won't see a change / Save, perhaps, a slight gray in my eye" show that even though the sadness is still present, the speaker has learned to manage it and hide it from others. This line also highlights the importance of routine and structure in coping with sadness, as the mundanity of work provides a sense of stability and normalcy amidst the turmoil inside.

The image of a knife sticking out of one's side is haunting and visceral, but it is presented matter-of-factly, without any explanation or context. This lack of detail adds to the ambiguity and mystery surrounding this image, leaving its interpretation open to interpretation. It could represent physical pain, emotional wounds, or both, further emphasizing the interconnectedness between mind and body in coping with sadness.

The lines "And when I find that a knife's sticking out of my side / I'll pull it out without questioning why" show a sense of acceptance and resignation towards the pain, as if the speaker has come to terms with the fact that pain is an inevitable part of life. This line also highlights the importance of self-care in coping with sadness, as the speaker takes proactive steps to address their pain rather than ignore it or suppress it.

The lyrics "And then, one warm summer night / I'll hear fireworks outside" introduce a new element to the story - the sound of fireworks reminding the speaker of memories from the past. These memories are described as crying, highlighting the painful nature of these recollections. However, there is also a sense of comfort and nostalgia present in this line, as if the memories bring some solace or closure to the speaker.

The repeated refrain "Cry, cry, cry" at the end of the song underscores the raw emotional power of sadness and grief. It is a stark reminder that sadness cannot be ignored or suppressed, but must be acknowledged and processed in its own time. However, this line also hints at the possibility of healing and moving forward, as the repetition suggests that the speaker is learning to accept and process their emotions rather than suppress them.

Overall, "Fireworks" by Mitski is a poignant exploration of coping with sadness and finding solace in everyday life. The lyrics are raw, honest, and relatable, making it a powerful anthem for anyone who has struggled with deep emotions. The mix of acceptance, resilience, and hope in the song adds depth to its emotional landscape, highlighting the complexities of coping with sadness and finding meaning amidst pain.

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