Meaning of "Parakeet" by R.E.M.

The lyrics of "Parakeet" by R.E.M. paint a picture of someone feeling stuck in a repetitive and suffocating routine, symbolized by the imagery of a nearly dead parakeet. The desire for change and a breath of fresh air is evident throughout the song, with the repeated theme of opening windows to "lift into our dreams" and "start to breathe" suggesting a longing for freedom and new possibilities. The reference to a broken wrist and accident may allude to a physical or emotional injury holding the person back, and the lyrics touch on themes of healing, transformation, and seeking solace in new surroundings. The final lines about waking up to a warm Pacific breeze and the inability of mean cats to climb trees provide a sense of hope and renewal, implying that there is still a chance for escape and a fresh start.