Meaning of "Inhale Deep" by Macklemore

In this song, Macklemore emphasizes the significance of living in the present moment and accepting the struggles that come with it. He acknowledges that life can be chaotic and difficult, but encourages listeners to stay connected and learn from these hardships. The artist believes that struggles are meant to teach us lessons and help us grow. He compares life's darkest moments to the part of the night just before the sun rises, reminding us that the beauty of standing up after being knocked down is what makes life worthwhile. Macklemore believes that we create our own limitations and that life is limitless if we embrace this mindset.

The artist also touches on his personal experiences with fear, addiction, and self-doubt. He opens up about the pressure he feels to create music that people will like, leading him to turn to substances as a coping mechanism. However, he realizes that he cannot truly inspire or address issues in his music if he is not able to overcome his own struggles. Macklemore confronts the conflict between his artistic ambition and his lack of motivation and confidence to change himself. He acknowledges the difficulty of breaking free from addiction, but understands that he needs to play the hand he was dealt and confront his own issues to live a fulfilling life.

Ultimately, Macklemore learns the importance of self-reflection and finding peace within oneself. He understands that true inspiration and creativity come from inner clarity and sobriety. By inhaling deep and finding peace, whether through music or self-reflection, he believes he can connect with his true essence and overcome the challenges he faces.