Running
Menomena Lyrics

The lyrics to Menomena's "Running" convey the desperation of a person who is struggling to survive in a harsh environment. The singer describes their constant movement through walking, running, and picking up steam. They are in danger of exploding from the pressure of their circumstances, but they are determined to push through and make it before winter arrives. The repeated refrain of "before the cows come home / before the cows come through" adds to the sense of urgency and scarcity.

The repetition of the opening lines emphasizes the physical toll that this struggle is taking on the singer. They are walking so much that it is safe to say they are thinner, which hints at a lack of sustenance. The singer's reference to the need for food before winter highlights the precariousness of their situation. Without finding food, they may not make it through the season, which adds an additional layer of stress and potential loss.

The repeated phrase "before the cows come home / before the cows come through" is an interesting choice because it suggests a rural setting in which cows are a prominent feature. This creates a specific image of a person or group of people trying to survive in a remote location where food is scarce and farms are few and far between. The repetition of the phrase also creates a sense of rhythm that adds to the song's intense atmosphere.

Overall, the lyrics to Menomena's "Running" are a poignant expression of the struggle to survive in harsh conditions. The repetition and urgency of the language convey a deeper sense of desperation and loss that resonates with the listener.