Meaning of "Milk Thistle" by Conor Oberst

Conor Oberst's "Milk Thistle" delves deep into themes of mortality, loneliness, and the struggle to find meaning in life. The repetitive imagery of milk thistle serves as a metaphor for life's hardships, with the desire to be helped to go slow suggesting a wish for some respite from the struggles and pain. The references to Fairchild, a friend or acquaintance, and Lazarus, a biblical figure, bring interpersonal connections and a sense of faith or hope into the narrative. The lyrics touch on a longing for simplicity, human connection, and the feeling of being overwhelmed by the relentless march of time. The mention of newspapers and their relentless presence symbolize the onslaught of information and negativity that can weigh a person down. The elevator ride towards the light implies a journey towards enlightenment or transcendence, while the playful reference to coffee before facing the day adds a touch of everyday mundanity to the deeper existential questions being raised. Overall, "Milk Thistle" poignantly captures the struggles of existence, the search for meaning, and the need for solace and connection in a world filled with challenges.