Better Off High Lyrics – Marcus Mumford

[Verse 1]
In this verse, the singer suggests that being under the influence of a substance (being "high") might be preferable to feeling emotionally or mentally "dead." When life becomes overwhelming ("stripped bare") or when one has dealt with their responsibilities ("settled your affairs"), there's a comparison drawn to being in a vulnerable, open state ("dressed in white like a bride") or experiencing a new phase of belief or understanding ("new believer")....Read More

[Chorus]
The chorus introduces the theme of trust and uncertainty. The metaphor of "holding a handful of dust" implies that what we grasp is fragile and transient, representing the unpredictable nature of life. The repetition of the question "What else can we trust?" underscores the uncertainty and challenges the reliability of various aspects of life. The phrase "It's all that's left for us" could suggest that, in the face of uncertainty, we must find meaning and trust in what remains.

[Verse 2]
This verse possibly refers to moments of introspection and self-doubt ("back on the line") where one confronts their inner thoughts and emotions. The reference to "the last stillness in your mind" could represent a moment of clarity before the chaos of thoughts takes over. The singer seems to reject superficial conversations ("tedious talk") as insincere or unfulfilling, implying that they prefer deeper, more meaningful interactions.

[Chorus]
The chorus repeats, emphasizing the idea of relying on what little is left when everything else fades away. The repetition adds to the song's contemplative and melancholic mood.

[Verse 3]
This verse delves into a sense of inner conflict and contradiction. The idea that "some hell's put a peace on me" could mean that even amidst difficulty or pain, there's a strange sense of tranquility. However, the lingering discomfort or negative emotions are still present ("hooks in me"). The mention of "silence" intensifying the "curse" might reflect the way that quiet moments can sometimes amplify inner turmoil or unresolved issues.

[Outro]
The outro returns to the theme introduced at the beginning: acknowledging the potential positive impact of substances that can provide a mental shift ("click in your head"). The final line, "Better off high than dead," underscores the song's underlying message that in some situations, seeking solace in altered states might seem more appealing than facing emotional or psychological distress alone.

In summary, "Better Off High" explores the complexities of human emotions, trust, vulnerability, and the contrast between feeling alive and feeling emotionally disconnected. The lyrics use vivid imagery and metaphors to convey these themes, ultimately suggesting that embracing emotional depth and vulnerability is a more fulfilling way to navigate the uncertainties of life. ...Read Less