Meaning of "Clever" by Beartooth

The lyrics of "Clever" delve into the concept of using cleverness as a defense mechanism to hide one's vulnerabilities and weaknesses. The narrator admits that they hide behind their cadence and a metaphorical wall they have built, never allowing their weaknesses to show. By twisting their words and presenting themselves as clever, they avoid confronting their true emotions and burdens. However, despite the facade, the narrator reveals that they are breaking inside. They describe feeling like death and their happiness hanging by a thread, implying a constant battle between darkness and contentment. The use of the phrase "I guess being clever's just my safety net" suggests that their cleverness serves as a protective barrier, a way to maintain a sense of control and find temporary solace.

The lyrics also touch upon the narrator's struggle with their own mental state. They admit to feeling inconsistent and messed up in their head, believing that their passing (likely referring to their own death) would somehow benefit their friends because they feel that their words do not hold any significance. This highlights a deeper sense of despair and hopelessness. The repeated lines "I'm so messed up and inconsistent in my head" and "I finally feel content" emphasize the contradictory nature of their emotions and how their cleverness acts as a coping mechanism to navigate these complexities.

Overall, "Clever" delves into the internal struggle of someone who uses cleverness to hide their vulnerabilities and uncertainties. It explores the conflict between appearing strong and hiding weaknesses, and the toll it takes on their mental and emotional well-being. The song suggests that even though cleverness may provide a temporary sense of control and contentment, it ultimately creates a barrier to genuine connection and true happiness.