The Middle
Alle Farben & Rhodes Lyrics

The first verse of the song "The Middle" by Alle Farben & Rhodes paints a picture of chaos and confusion, with references to a welly (a boot) through the door and a bullet inside the brain, symbolizing intrusion and violence. The dirty floor and ominous stain suggest a sense of unease and discomfort in the environment. The repeated mention of nicotine and coffee implies a reliance on substances to cope with the overwhelming circumstances. The imagery of walking into work in pyjamas and a dressing gown and giving the TV a "dressing down" hints at a sense of disorientation and detachment from reality. The list of mouthwashes like Listerine and Corsedyl may represent an attempt to cleanse or purify oneself amidst the chaos.

The chorus reflects a moment of realization or perhaps a breaking point, as the singer declares, "I lost my mind in the middle of the summer." This line can be interpreted as a metaphor for reaching a state of mental distress or confusion during a time that is typically associated with relaxation and warmth. The repetition of this declaration emphasizes the intensity of the emotional experience described.

The second verse shifts the focus to a more intimate interaction, where the singer asks if someone would pass them a notepad and pen if they woke up in the night. The mention of a spotlight coming on again suggests a sense of scrutiny or exposure, waking both the singer and the person they are addressing. This moment of interruption and vulnerability is acknowledged through an apology for disturbing their peace. The reference to hearing a Chinese woman hollering in the heavy evening heat and rain adds to the atmosphere of disorientation and uncertainty. The singer expresses understanding for the other person's experience, even if they don't entirely believe the specific details shared.

The chorus is repeated with a slight variation, this time addressing a collective experience as the singer sings, "We lost our minds in the middle of the summer." This shift from the individual to a shared perspective suggests a connection between the singer and another person, possibly implying a mutual struggle or shared sense of disorientation during a challenging time. The closing lines, questioning "What's the limit, what is the limit tell me," reflect a search for boundaries or constraints in the midst of the emotional upheaval described throughout the song. The repetition of the phrase "What's the limit" emphasizes a theme of uncertainty and questioning that runs through the lyrics, underscoring the complexity of the situation being portrayed.