Meaning of "Astronaut" by Sir Sly

The lyrics of "Astronaut" delve into the theme of self-discovery and the exploration of one's own mind through the use of hallucinogenic drugs. The opening lines set the stage for the song, with the speaker acknowledging that they may be tripping and feeling detached from reality. The reference to their head being in the sky while their feet are on the ground indicates a sense of dissonance between their inner thoughts and the physical world around them.

The mention of "paper" and "love on the tongue" alludes to the consumption of psychedelics, specifically LSD, which is often taken in the form of small paper tabs placed on the tongue. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, as the speaker embarks on a journey of self-exploration and reflection.

As the song progresses, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of the speaker's experience. They describe a world of color and being in the future, but also feeling scared and unprepared for what they encounter. This represents the overwhelming and disorienting nature of the drug experience, where one can feel a mixture of awe and fear as they delve deeper into their own psyche.

The line "And now my brain, a private theater" suggests that the speaker's mind has become a cinematic space, combining elements of both a camera and a gun. This juxtaposition may symbolize the power and potential danger of their thoughts and perceptions while under the influence of the drug.

The chorus of the song reiterates the feeling of being an astronaut in space, which serves as a metaphor for the speaker's detachment from reality and their sense of freedom and exploration. They express their disbelief in the commonly held belief that the drug will cause irreversible damage, hinting that perhaps the drug experience is not as harmful as society portrays it to be.

The second verse introduces the concept of "lysergic feelings" and "barium vibes," further emphasizing the mind-altering effects of the drugs. The speaker describes looking down from the ceiling and having a bird's-eye view, possibly suggesting an out-of-body experience or a shift in perspective.

The mention of being in the bathtub and swimming in lavender hymns signifies a moment of tranquility and spiritual awakening. The speaker feels as though they are discovering God, who they describe as "paper-thin," implying a sense of fragility and intangibility in their newfound belief system.

Towards the end of the song, the speaker questions whether they are currently experiencing a comedown or a return to reality. They reflect on the possibility of finding peace of mind and a little more clarity through their psychedelic journey.

Overall, "Astronaut" delves into the themes of self-discovery, perception, and the exploration of one's own mind. It portrays the drug experience as a transformative and enlightening journey, challenging societal stigmas and suggesting the potential benefits of expanding one's consciousness.