Meaning of "Mr. Amateur" by Midlake

The lyrics of "Mr. Amateur" by Midlake delve into feelings of inadequacy, uncertainty, and longing for guidance or support. The protagonist sees themselves as a novice, struggling to navigate life's challenges, represented by the image of being on a freeway with a cupcake, a seemingly incongruous and unprepared state. The mention of not being able to fly signifies a lack of freedom or agency, while the desire to have known someone wonderful with laserbeams and a birdsuit suggests a yearning for a mentor figure or someone who possesses qualities of strength, guidance, and grace that they themselves lack. The offer of an extra sword could symbolize an opportunity for empowerment or support being extended, potentially to help the protagonist overcome their own amateurishness and step into a more confident, capable version of themselves.