Meaning of "Too High" by Stevie Wonder

"Too High" showcases the effects and consequences of drug use, particularly marijuana, and comments on society's glamorized perception of it as a means of escape. The opening lines of the song - "I'm too high, I'm too high, but I ain't touched the sky" - suggest that despite being under the influence, the singer feels detached from any transcendent or euphoric experiences. This implies that drugs are not necessarily a pathway to enlightenment or higher states of consciousness.

The song then introduces the character of a girl who is also under the influence of drugs, visualizing a surreal and distorted world. She sees a "four-eyed cartoon monster" on the TV screen and experiences a warped sense of reality, where "red is green" and she herself is likened to a "tangerine." This portrayal highlights the disorientation and confusion caused by drug use, indicating the negative impact it can have on one's perception of reality.

Furthermore, the lyrics suggest that the girl was living a superficial life, potentially pursuing fame and success, but her chances were hindered by her behavior ("she wasn't very nice"). This implies that drug use may have contributed to her downfall and prevented her from fully realizing her potential.

The song abruptly shifts tone, revealing that the girl has died. The repetition of the phrase "they said she's too high, too high, can't hang around anyway" suggests that her drug use ultimately led to her demise. This serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of drug abuse and its potentially fatal consequences.

Overall, "Too High" serves as a critique of drug use and explores the themes of disconnection, distorted perception, missed opportunities, and the tragic consequences that can arise from substance abuse.