Meaning of "Chairkickers" by Brown Bird

The lyrics of "Chairkickers" delve into the internal struggles and contradictions within the human experience. The line "We fight till we fall, us chairkickers all" illustrates the relentless battle that the narrator and their community go through, constantly fighting against the challenges they face. The phrase "We cling to these coils and curl in a ball" suggests a sense of holding onto anxieties or troubles, finding comfort and familiarity in them. The harbor being described as "teeming with commerce and crime" suggests a complex and multifaceted environment where the narrator finds themselves. They acknowledge that they only own what owns them, implying a lack of control or agency over their own lives.

The line "There are cracks in the minds of our own humankind that are leaking out poison and hope" brings attention to the contradictory nature of human thoughts and actions. It addresses the internal conflicts between negativity and positivity, darkness and light that exist within each individual. The choice to imbibe either poison or hope is emphasized, highlighting the personal responsibility we have in deciding what we consume mentally and emotionally. The reference to "internal life or the ghost" suggests the choice between living a fulfilling and authentic existence or succumbing to a life that is superficial and devoid of meaning.

The second half of the song introduces an admiral and the characters Will and the narrator, presenting a scenario of placing bets on the limits of a beast's appetite, suggesting a metaphorical challenge or test of boundaries. This adds an element of unpredictability and risk to the lyrics, further emphasizing the theme of choices and consequences.

Overall, the lyrics of "Chairkickers" explore the internal struggles, contradictions, and choices within the human experience. It poses questions about ownership, belonging, and the choices we make in consuming negativity or seeking hope. The song invites reflection on the complexity of the human mind and our individual agency in shaping our lives.