Citywide rodeo, you set on the stage, where all the clowns will go when they feel their age. I know that you think you're not good for anything. The world makes you feel so small. Get on your wooden horse. THis is a ride, not a fight. No need to save face, say goodnight Grace, "Goodnight, Grace." There's dust on the stadium seats, there's dust in your hair. You wonder how fast you'll go when you hit the air. And oh, isn't it strange how things can change you? And oh, isnt it plain that some things unname you, so dont ask anybody else. Citywide rodeo, step into your car. Look up at the indigo, and pick out your star.

Overall Meaning

The Weepies' "Citywide Rodeo" is a song that exudes a sense of melancholy and hopelessness but offers a glimmer of optimism. The opening lines "Citywide rodeo, you set on the stage, where all the clowns will go when they feel their age" suggest that the city is like a rodeo, a place where people go to perform and entertain, but eventually, they grow old and tired, and the city becomes a place where they feel useless. The singer seems to be addressing someone who has lost their sense of purpose and self-worth, telling them to get on their wooden horse and enjoy the ride.

The chorus line "No need to save face, say goodnight Grace, 'Goodnight, Grace'" reinforces the idea that trying to hold on to pride and dignity can be exhausting, and it's okay to let go and say goodnight. The verse "You wonder how fast you'll go when you hit the air. And oh, isn't it strange how things can change you?" acknowledges that change can be scary but can also be what we need to break free from our rut. The song ends with "Citywide rodeo, step into your car, Look up at the indigo, and pick out your star," encouraging the listener to find their own path and navigate their way through the city's chaos.

Line by Line Meaning

Citywide rodeo, you set on the stage, where all the clowns will go when they feel their age.
Life can feel like a circus, with you as the main act. We all have our moments of feeling like a clown, but you provide a source of entertainment to take away from our struggles.

I know that you think you're not good for anything.
You may feel like you have nothing to offer, but you bring joy and inspiration to those around you.

The world makes you feel so small.
It's easy to feel insignificant and powerless in a society that can be overwhelming and unforgiving.

Get on your wooden horse.
Life can feel like a ride, not a fight. Take control of your journey and enjoy the adventure.

This is a ride, not a fight.
Don't stress over every twist and turn in your journey. Embrace the ups and downs, and enjoy the ride.

No need to save face, say goodnight Grace, "Goodnight, Grace."
Don't worry about putting on a front or hiding your true feelings. It's okay to say goodbye and move on from what is no longer serving you.

There's dust on the stadium seats, there's dust in your hair.
Life can be messy and unpredictable. You might feel like things are out of place and not going according to plan, but that's okay.

You wonder how fast you'll go when you hit the air.
The uncertain future can be intimidating, but it's also exciting. Embrace the unknown and see where it takes you.

And oh, isn't it strange how things can change you?
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns that can completely alter your course. These changes can be scary, but they can also lead to growth and new opportunities.

And oh, isn't it plain that some things unname you, so dont ask anybody else.
Some experiences are so personal and unique that they can't be fully understood or explained by anyone else. Trust yourself and your intuition, and don't rely on other people to define your experiences.

Citywide rodeo, step into your car.
The journey of life is yours to take, so take control and step into the driver's seat.

Look up at the indigo, and pick out your star.
Though the future may be uncertain, you have the power to choose your own path and create your own destiny. Look to the stars and follow your dreams.

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