Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: indie-pop
Song Meaning of “Brand New City” by Mitski
The song “Brand New City” by Mitski tells a story of someone’s desire to move on from a place of hurt and create a new life elsewhere. The singer looks to the future, yearning for a sense of freedom away from the pain. The lyrics are full of struggle and a sense of being stuck between the comfort of their dark situation and the hope of a “brand new city” and a better life.
The opening verse paints a vivid picture of someone feeling limited by their current circumstances and searching for something bigger and better. “Like borrowed hardware I can’t use myself/ Trapped in my own throat, I want out I want to leave” captures this sense of never ending struggle and longing for a new life. The idea of being trapped, unable to reach your fullest potential, is a common feeling and one universal to anyone stuck in a difficult situation.
The chorus reflects this desire to leave for a “Brand New City” as a means to escape from the pain. However, it also speaks to the idea that these feelings will always remain within you, no matter where you physically go. The line “I’ll drag my pain along while I try to move on” conveys this sense of taking your struggles with you, no matter how far you try to move away.
The song’s overall message is one of hope. It encourages listeners to keep striving for freedom and a better life, no matter the struggles they face within themselves and amongst the world. It speaks to the courage it takes to create a new beginning, away from all the darkness and hurt. Ultimately, “Brand New City” reminds us that we can always move forward, even if it means taking our dark places with us.