Meaning of "Easy Tiger" by Portugal. The Man

"Easy Tiger" delves into the complexities of adolescence, capturing the experience of a young person who is torn between conformity and rebellion. The opening lines, "Good kid, bad brains, Livin' for whatever, Tight rope, no chains, Holdin' it together," suggest a desire for freedom and the urge to live without constraints. The reference to being "six feet underground" highlights the feeling of being trapped and unable to see beyond the surface. The lyrics also speak to the struggle of trying to build a life while constantly tearing it down, possibly symbolizing the difficulty of maintaining a sense of self amidst societal expectations.

The repeated refrain, "Don't call collect, can't break it open, Easy tiger, You're only sixteen going on forever," emphasizes the conflicts faced by the protagonist. The line "Don't call collect, can't break it open" suggests a frustration with being unable to escape or break free from the confines of their situation. The mention of being "only sixteen going on forever" speaks to the timeless struggle of adolescence, where one feels both young and boundless yet simultaneously trapped in their circumstances.

The lyrics also make reference to memories and the longing to hold onto them. The line, "Cause I still see your face, Getting lost in the crowd," conveys a sense of nostalgia and yearning for connections that have been lost or forgotten. The mention of hearing the sound of a pack howling further symbolizes a desire for freedom, unity, and a sense of belonging.

Overall, "Easy Tiger" captures the essence of being a teenager, exploring the tension between rebellion and conformity, the longing for independence, and the struggle to find one's place in the world. It portrays the conflicting emotions and desires that often accompany this phase of life, where the search for identity and freedom is met with the challenges of societal expectations and the fear of losing oneself.