Machine
Nee-Hi Lyrics

In the song "Machine" by Nee-Hi, the opening lines, "Are you barking at my cold chin? / Holler Christ," depict an initial confrontation or acknowledgment of an external pressure that might feel abrasive or harsh, akin to a dog barking. The mention of "cold chin" suggests a metaphorical chill, perhaps symbolizing emotional detachment or isolation. The subsequent line, "I prefer being told what to do," implies a resignation or acceptance of authority, a desire to conform rather than fight against the tide. This relinquishing of personal agency culminates in the vivid imagery of a "bloody 360," suggesting a violent, disorienting transformation or the consequences of passive acceptance. Instead of meaningful participation in life ("Taking common tests for nothing"), the singer feels as if they’re engaging in meaningless rituals that lack substance or purpose, highlighting a sense of disillusionment.

Transitioning from this confrontation with the self and the world, the singer reflects on their current state: "For real, pal / Until I stand today." This indicates a moment of awakening or realization about their existence and condition. The juxtaposition of "For real, friend" and "I can still kid today" creates a tension between sincerity and playfulness, hinting that despite the complexities and struggles, there remains a spark of humor or levity. As the singer resolves to make it "a true last goodbye," they are possibly signaling an end to a particular phase of their life or mindset, suggesting a desire for closure as they seek to move on from inner turmoil or external constraints.

As the lyrics progress, the line "Oh, I stand like a dog / Until I'm buried by the absence" evokes a sense of loyalty and submission, mirroring the initial imagery. It encapsulates the struggle of feeling trapped and overwhelmed by loss or emotional barrenness. "Only butchered by delivery" introduces the idea of being deconstructed or harmed by the very processes or means through which one interacts with the world. This can suggest that the act of engagement with society and its expectations can often prove detrimental to an individual's integrity, feeding into feelings of inadequacy or fear of exposure. The singer continues to grapple with the desire to be seen, indicating that what lies beneath the surface is marred by the pressures of societal norms and outside influences.

The chorus’s repetition of "Oh, can I least portray a ghost?" introduces a desire for representation, a wish to be visible despite feeling ghostly or insubstantial. The imagery of "flesh in sprayed colors" and "Peel like a building in 2000 AD" conveys a sense of decay and transformation, reflecting how individuals may feel like remnants of their former selves in a world that changes rapidly and often destructively. The phrase "to a destiny of winds and machines" evokes the relentless and impersonal forces of modern life, possibly referencing the mechanization of human experiences where natural and organic feelings are often overshadowed by mechanical, automated existence. Overall, "Machine" illustrates a poignant struggle with identity, existential transition, and the yearning for agency in a world that feels indifferent and engulfing.