Lighten Up
Andy Fairweather Low Lyrics

The lyrics of Andy Fairweather Low's song "Lighten Up" convey a sense of personal struggle and the desire for freedom and release from the burdens of life. The opening lines, "I've blazed across this city, Broken through the flames," suggest a tumultuous journey or experience of pushing through difficult circumstances. The singer mentions selling their reflection to ease the pain, possibly indicating a willingness to sacrifice their own identity or self for temporary relief.

The repeated plea to "lighten up" and not shoot them down suggests a plea for understanding and empathy from others. The desire to have their feet "lay on the ground" suggests a longing for stability and grounding amidst the chaos. The singer acknowledges running out of favors and doors, suggesting a depletion of resources and opportunities to escape their current situation. They lament their inability to balance the scales and even up the score, implying a frustration with not being able to find fairness or justice in their life.

The second verse builds on the theme of change and the singer's struggle to adapt to it. The feeling of being a stranger and a slave suggests a sense of disconnection and being constrained by external forces. The reference to a "lonely grave" emphasizes the depth of their loneliness and entrapment. These lines convey a profound sense of imprisonment and despair.

The third verse introduces a message of hope and caution. The repetition of the plea to lighten up is a reminder to not let negativity consume oneself. The mention of things coming back one day suggests the cyclical nature of life and the potential for redemption or better days to come. The line "watch what you do and say, take good care you don't backslide away" serves as a reminder to be mindful of one's actions and words, as they can have lasting consequences.

In the final verse, the singer reflects on their efforts and the validation received from others, but still feels unsatisfied. The desire for "the blood of diamonds, not rattlesnakes and chains" implies a longing for something more substantial and meaningful in life. This unfulfilled desire is driving them insane, further emphasizing their desperation and frustration.

Overall, the lyrics of "Lighten Up" portray a deep yearning for freedom, understanding, and relief from burdensome circumstances. The song speaks to the universal human struggle to find balance, happiness, and a sense of purpose in a world of constant change and challenging circumstances.