Canary Lyrics

"Canary" by Everything Everything offers a layered exploration of resistance and the struggle for authenticity in the face of external pressures and societal norms. Through the metaphor of a canary, traditionally used in coal mines as an early warnning system for danger, the song presents a narrative of defiance and self-preservation. The opening lines, "You can't make me believe what I don't / I can breathe thrugh the pen in my throat," suggest an assertion of personal belief and the power of voice, even when it is suppressed or endangered. This imagery of breathing through a pen implies the use of writing or artistic expression as a means of survival and resistance. The refrain "Don't wanna say the quiet part out loud / But we're not profound, we're just meat" reflects a cynicism towards the human condition and a refusal to romanticize our existence. This line serves as a grounding moment, highlighting the raw and often unspoken truths about humanity's place in the world. Repeated references to the canary "Under the ground" evoke the song's central theme of warning and vulnerability. The canary's presence underground is a reminder of the dangers that lurk within societal structures and the cost of speaking out or resisting those dangers. Yet, there is also an element of resilience in this imagery—the canary sings, even in the face of potential peril. The lines "I don't think it's a trick of the light / No more dreaming in black and white" suggest a rejection of illusion and a call to see the world as it truly is, in all its complexity. This plea for clarity and reality over simplification and binary thinking challenges the listener to embrace a more nuanced understanding of their environment. "Canary" is a compelling commentary on the individual's struggle to maintain integrity and authenticity in a world that often seeks to silence dissenting voices. The song uses powerful imagery and metaphor to delve into themes of warning, resistance, and the search for truth in an increasingly conformist society. Through its evocative lyrics, Everything Everything crafts a narrative that resonates with those who feel the pressure to conform while nurturing the desire to remain true to themselves.