Brahminy Kite
Caribou Lyrics

The lyrics to "Brahminy Kite" by Caribou express a sense of existential confusion and the struggle for personal freedom. The repetition of the phrases "Ascending all the time, descending all the time, pretending to be free" and "Spending all the time, ascending all the time, pretending to be me" underscore the cycle of futile efforts to escape the self and achieve true liberation. The imagery of the brahminy kite, a bird of prey found in South and Southeast Asia, adds another layer to the metaphorical meaning of the song. The brahminy kite is known for its keen eyesight and ability to soar high in the sky, but also for its tendency to scavenge on carrion, suggesting a duality of beauty and darkness.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of authenticity and the act of pretending. The repetition of "pretending all the time" suggests a deep-seated need to put on a facade, to be someone other than oneself. However, this is juxtaposed with the phrase "intending to be free," suggesting a desire for change and growth, even if it is not fully realized.

Overall, "Brahminy Kite" is a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of personal identity and the search for freedom.