The lyrics describe someone feeling cold and sweating while lying still and trying to breathe deeply. They reflect on how their feelings are not solely determined by someone else's actions or words, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and learning.

Meaning of "Donkey School" by Guided By Voices

The lyrics of "Donkey School" by Guided By Voices seem to convey a sense of inner turmoil and personal introspection. The mention of feeling cold, sweating, and lying still could symbolize the physical manifestations of stress or anxiety. The act of trying to breathe deeply could suggest a struggle to find calm and peace amidst this internal chaos. The line "It's not the things you said, it's not the things you did" possibly indicates that the turmoil the speaker is experiencing is not solely caused by external factors or other people's actions. Instead, there is an emphasis on personal responsibility and growth, as highlighted by the repeated call to "learn." This could be interpreted as a push for self-awareness and development, urging the speaker to reflect on their own actions and reactions rather than blaming others for their emotional state.

Overall, the lyrics of "Donkey School" appear to be a reflection on the complexity of emotions and the importance of self-discovery and personal growth. The imagery used paints a vivid picture of inner struggle, while the message conveys a sense of empowerment through self-reflection. By emphasizing the need to learn and grow from one's experiences, the lyrics suggest a journey towards understanding and personal development.