Meaning of "Goin' Against Your Mind" by Built To Spill

"Goin' Against Your Mind" is a song that speaks to the struggle of maintaining individuality and resisting societal pressures. The lyrics reflect a skepticism towards prescribed notions of masculinity and highlight the narrator's refusal to conform to such expectations. The repetition of the phrase "Goin' against your mind" emphasizes the act of resisting conformity and asserting one's own thoughts and beliefs. The lyrics suggest that conforming to societal norms is a waste of time, as the things that society hides are often undesirable or detrimental. The line "If you're not sure who not to believe, who has better reasons to deceive?" touches on the difficulty of discerning truth and the potential for manipulation by those in power.

The line "When I was a kid I saw a light, Floating high above the trees one night, Thought it was an alien, Turned out to be just god" adds a layer of existential exploration to the song. It challenges conventional religious beliefs by framing a childhood experience with ambiguity, questioning whether the perceived entity was truly supernatural or just a product of imagination or misinterpretation. This line could be interpreted as a metaphor for the realization that many of the things perceived as profound or supernatural may have more mundane explanations. It encourages a critical examination of beliefs and a willingness to question the status quo.

Overall, "Goin' Against Your Mind" urges listeners to think independently and not succumb to societal pressures or blindly accept the beliefs of others. It promotes authenticity, urging individuals to embrace their own thoughts and ideals instead of conforming to the expectations of society. The song encourages critical thinking, skepticism, and personal autonomy, reminding listeners to question the motives and truthfulness of those in positions of authority.