Don't Look Down
Northern State Lyrics

The lyrics of Northern State's song "Don't Look Down" seemingly impart a dual tone of optimism and disillusionment with the world. The phrase "peaceful easy feeling" suggests the sense of comfort and freedom that comes with breaking through a ceiling of limitation, but the subsequent line "feeling rage at every stage" casts a shadow on this sense of liberation. The use of the term "shady-ass dealing" speaks to the artist's frustration with the dishonest dealings of those in power, likely reflecting a broader disillusionment with society as a whole. Despite this, the refusal to "look down" suggests a determined optimism and a refusal to be defeated by disappointment.

The lyrics may also be interpreted as a commentary on social inequality and the barriers that women and marginalized groups face in achieving success. The use of language like "glass ceiling" suggests a specific criticism of the ways in which structures of power keep certain groups from advancing. However, the lyrics ultimately convey a rebellious spirit and a refusal to let societal limitations hold one back.