The lyrics describe a situation where the speaker's partner always wanted more time to do what they wanted, but now that they have it, the speaker must be high to say goodbye. The partner never said they needed the relationship, missed the last kiss, and never looked in the speaker's eyes for peace of mind, but now that they are leaving, the speaker must be high to let them go.

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Meaning of "I Must Be High" by Wilco


The lyrics of "I Must Be High" speak to the bittersweet realization that sometimes we only appreciate things or people once they are gone. The speaker's partner takes them for granted, never truly valuing the relationship until it's ending. The reference to being "high" could symbolize a state of detachment or altered perception that allows the speaker to let go of something that is no longer serving them, even if it causes them pain. Overall, the lyrics reflect on the complexities of human relationships, the irony of missed opportunities, and the struggle to say goodbye when it's necessary.