Meaning of "Too Much to Think" by 311

The lyrics of "Too Much to Think" by 311 reflect the internal struggle of feeling overwhelmed and stuck in life. The narrator finds themselves in a waiting room, symbolizing a state of stagnation and lack of progress. They are focused on the emptiness and dissatisfaction that is getting under their skin. This could represent a feeling of being trapped, unable to move forward and unsure of how to break free.

The repeated question of "How do I keep it? How do I keep it here?" reveals a longing for stability and a desire to stay present in the moment. The narrator is searching for a way to hold onto a sense of peace and clarity in the face of life's challenges.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of escapism, with the narrator expressing a desire to get high. This could be interpreted both literally, as a desire for substance-induced relief, or metaphorically, as a yearning for an escape from the pressures and anxieties of everyday life. However, they feel like someone or something is holding them back from achieving this release, keeping them low and unable to reach the desired high.

The mention of walking through the "valley of the shadow of LA" adds another layer to the song's meaning. It speaks to the fast-paced and often superficial culture of Los Angeles, where people are constantly running away from their problems and distracting themselves from their dissatisfaction. The narrator acknowledges the temporary nature of this distraction and the underlying sense of dissatisfaction that remains.

Overall, "Too Much to Think" delves into themes of feeling overwhelmed, searching for stability, and longing for escape. It captures the struggle of trying to find peace and contentment in a fast-paced and distracting world.