Meaning of "High Road" by Cults

The lyrics of "High Road" by Cults explore themes of regret, longing, and the consequences of making choices based on immediate gratification. The narrator expresses their confusion and frustration at not knowing the true intentions and actions of the person they are addressing. There is a sense of being left behind and disregarded, as the person's activities are a mystery to the narrator. The line "I guess that's all you want from me" suggests that the person is using the narrator for their own purposes without really caring about the relationship between them.

The lyrics then shift focus to the consequences of the narrator's own choices. They regret not taking the high road, which could signify making the morally upright or responsible decisions. Instead, they chose the low road, likely referring to taking shortcuts or opting for immediate gratification. This decision has led to a long and difficult journey back, as well as a realization that whatever they did or gained cannot be undone or taken back.

The song delves into the feeling of being stuck in a cycle, unable to escape the consequences of one's actions. The repeated line "Maybe you could be the big star in tonight's show" suggests that the person the narrator is addressing is constantly seeking attention and validation, potentially at the expense of others. The mention of the world feeling crowded and small indicates a sense of suffocation or overwhelm, where the person may be seeking recognition to escape their own internal struggles.

Ultimately, the lyrics highlight the importance of taking responsibility for one's choices and considering the long-term implications. The regret expressed by the narrator serves as a cautionary tale, urging listeners to choose the high road rather than succumbing to momentary temptations. The song serves as a reminder that immediate gratification often leads to long-term consequences that can darken one's days.