Meaning of "Let's Eat" by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
The lyrics of "Let's Eat" delve into the challenges people face when trying to adopt a healthier lifestyle. The song opens with the narrator waking up and contemplating whether or not to indulge in a donut despite being on a diet. They express admiration for someone named Ryan who successfully lost weight following a paleo diet but ultimately give in to their love for fried food. The narrator's lack of discipline is further highlighted when they mention their failed attempts at doing crunches to achieve a slimmer stomach.
The lyrics also allude to society's obsession with body image and the pressure to conform to certain ideals. The narrator describes their girlfriend as having an ideal body shape, while comparing their own body to that of a "bottle of nope." This comparison reflects low self-esteem and insecurity regarding their own appearance.
There are references to popular culture figures like Hugh Jackman and Ben Affleck, indicating the desire to emulate their physique or success. The lyrics even suggest that Ben Affleck, who is known for his tumultuous relationship with Jennifer Garner, does not deserve her, and therefore, the narrator suggests his friend Matt Damon would be a better choice.
The song's chorus reveals the conflicting emotions the narrator experiences when it comes to food. Despite desiring a healthier lifestyle, the narrator finds joy in indulging in delicious food. They express satisfaction with their current state and reject the pressure to conform to societal expectations of weight and appearance.
The final verse talks about the common phenomenon of setting New Year's resolutions but failing to follow through. The narrator recalls getting a gym membership but quickly giving up after only five minutes on the treadmill. They acknowledge the need to make positive changes but procrastinate, planning to start tomorrow instead.
Overall, "Let's Eat" explores the struggle between wanting to improve one's health and succumbing to the pleasures of unhealthy food. It touches on societal pressures, body image insecurities, and the difficulty of maintaining resolutions and making positive changes.