Slow
Serena Ryder & The Beauties Lyrics

In these lyrics, Serena Ryder & The Beauties express a sense of familiarity and comfort in their surroundings, represented by the line "Gather round, old familiar." However, this is juxtaposed with a feeling of stagnation and failure, as indicated by the phrase "The portly stains of twelve years today." The singer's shelves are failing, symbolizing a lack of progress or growth. They feel like starting each day in this way is a coward's way, implying a sense of dissatisfaction or reluctance in their current situation.

Despite the desire to improve and move forward, there seems to be a constant reminder to take things slow. This repetition in the chorus - "Even though I'm getting better, I'm still told to take it slow" - suggests a conflict between the singer's internal drive for progress and external pressure to maintain a slower pace. This tension highlights a struggle between personal growth and societal expectations or limitations.

The following section reflects a desire for self-improvement and a search for meaning or purpose. The idea of tightening the purse strings and healthy living implies a need to be more mindful and enrich one's soul. The expression of love and a recognition of a difficult year indicate a yearning for growth and change. However, the singer finds it difficult to face the truth and expresses a sense of helplessness in trying to journal and confront their emotions.

The lyrics then shift to a conversation between the singer and someone else who advises them to take a break and take it slow. The singer acknowledges the heaviness of the rain, suggesting a metaphorical weight on their shoulders. The line "The light gets brighter as you look at it" could be interpreted as a glimmer of hope or optimism, indicating that there is a possibility for things to improve. Yet, they are being advised to prioritize themselves and slow down, perhaps indicating the need for self-care and self-reflection.

Overall, these lyrics depict a complex internal struggle between the desire to progress and the pressure to slow down. There is a longing for growth and improvement, but also a recognition of the need to take things at a slower pace. The rain and light imagery, along with the repeated phrase "I take it slow," underline the conflict and the ongoing process of navigating personal development in the face of external expectations.