Meaning of "When You're Small" by MGMT

The lyrics of "When You're Small" delve into the different experiences and perspectives that accompany being big and small. The song presents an interesting duality between size and perception. When someone is big, they can put their troubles aside and ignore the flaws and blemishes in their surroundings. By squinting their eyes, they can almost miss the dirt and convince themselves that it couldn't hurt. Being big allows for a certain sense of detachment and an ability to overlook smaller issues. However, as the song suggests, this sense of detachment also implies a lack of awareness and understanding of the world around them.

On the other hand, when someone is small, even insignificant challenges can seem insurmountable. The lyrics evoke a feeling of vulnerability and limitation when mentioning being unable to walk down a hall. The lack of physical stature reflects a broader metaphor for feeling powerless and insignificant. However, there is also a sense of belonging and safety in being small. The lyric "You feel like you belong" suggests that being small offers a certain level of comfort and acceptance in one's surroundings. Being small means being part of something bigger, finding solace in the knowledge that you are not alone.

The song further explores the contrast between being low and being high. When someone is low, they reach a point where they can't grasp the meaning or purpose of their circumstances. The inability to see eye to eye symbolizes a lack of understanding and connection with others. However, the song implies that being low also brings a deeper awareness and self-knowledge. It is during these moments of darkness that one truly gets to know themselves and gain a better understanding of their own struggles.

In contrast, when someone is high, they possess a certain confidence and detachment. While being high can mean different things to different people, it often results in a state of euphoria or altered perception. It allows one to detach themselves from their surroundings and the need to understand why things are the way they are. This higher state offers a respite from the confusion and complexity of life.

Overall, "When You're Small" explores the different experiences and perspectives that come with being big and small, low and high. It delves into the emotions and psychological dynamics that accompany each state. The song suggests that while being big brings a sense of detachment and ignorance, being small offers a sense of belonging and safety. Being low provides a deeper awareness, while being high allows for confidence and detachment. Each state has its own unique qualities and drawbacks, reminding us of the complexities and diverse experiences of human existence.