Meaning of "MILK" by Brockhampton

"MILK" delves into the struggles and personal growth of the artist as he reflects on his past experiences and the challenges he has faced. The opening lines highlight a transformation from the person he once was to someone who has lost their way and fallen in love. This suggests that his previous self was unsure and lost, but love brought clarity and a sense of purpose.

The lyrics then touch on drug use as a coping mechanism for insomnia, resulting in lost time and physical injury. The artist admits to past lies and theft, indicating a dishonest and self-destructive phase in his life. He reveals his paranoia and the presence of voices in his head, indicating possible mental health issues.

The next verse introduces the artist as Merlyn, sharing his personal struggles with poverty and his decision to move to California as a part of a boy band. He expresses dissatisfaction with societal expectations, such as wanting a briefcase and a conventional job. Instead, he longs for genuine human connection and a friend to share moments with, highlighting the importance of acceptance and companionship.

The chorus emphasizes the artist's desire to improve and find fulfillment within himself. He acknowledges his financial struggles and feelings of ugliness that have persisted since leaving his mother's house. He yearns for financial stability and a sense of value.

The lyrics also explore the artist's emotions, revealing a longing for communication through phone calls and expressing a familiarity with sadness, loneliness, and being used by others. He misses the presence of someone important in his life and the support they provided.

The bridge dives into deeper themes of self-reflection and self-discovery. The artist contemplates finding motivation in small things and acknowledges the need for atonement. He muses about his transparency and vulnerability in his songs, questioning whether he should lay all his cards on the table for everyone to see. He reflects on personal growth through heartbreak and the realization that everyone has their own struggles.

The lyrics also touch on the loss of a father and the weight of the artist's words. He feels the pressure to say the right things but is willing to face criticism and judgment. The song ends by acknowledging that everyone has their own story and that we all find ourselves exactly where we are meant to be.