AUTOMATIC
Yellowknife Lyrics


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I like the patterns and I like the routine
when it all follows certain rules.
It must be well-ordered, screened and adjusted.
It's a matter of principle.

I am a robot I am a machine,
working on schematics made by someone else
but I think that's okay.

I like the patterns and I like the routine
when it all follows certain rules.
It must be well-ordered, screened and adjusted.
It's a matter of principle.

They always say that it must look like this and that
and I never challenge it.
Because it always has been done this way and it always will.

I am a robot I am a machine,




working on schematics made by someone else
but I think that's okay.

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Yellowknife's song "Automatic" speak to the concept of routine, structure, and conformity. The singer expresses a preference for patterns and routine, as long as it follows certain rules and is well-organized. This need for structure is portrayed as a matter of principle, implying that there is comfort to be found in knowing what to expect and following established guidelines. The singer even goes so far as to liken themselves to a machine or robot, implying that they are content working within the confines of a predetermined set of rules.


While this preference for routine and structure may seem limiting, the singer goes on to suggest that there is a peace to be found in accepting that things have always been done a certain way and will continue to be done that way. There is a sense of surrender to the idea that challenging the status quo is not worth the effort, even if it goes against personal beliefs or desires. It is as if the singer is saying that there is beauty in accepting that life is not always perfect, but that there is comfort in the predictability of established routines and patterns.


Overall, "Automatic" is a song that speaks to the human need for structure, even in the face of personal desire or progress. It highlights the importance of feeling secure and grounded, even if it means giving up some freedom or flexibility.


Line by Line Meaning

I like the patterns and I like the routine
I enjoy predictability and structure in my life


when it all follows certain rules.
I prefer when things abide by established guidelines


It must be well-ordered, screened and adjusted.
I believe in meticulous attention to detail


It's a matter of principle.
I consider my way of doing things to be an important personal code


I am a robot I am a machine,
I am committed to following orders


working on schematics made by someone else
I am devoted to fulfilling tasks assigned to me by others


but I think that's okay.
I am content with the role I have been given


They always say that it must look like this and that
I am accustomed to following conventional standards


and I never challenge it.
I do not question the established way of doing things


Because it always has been done this way and it always will.
I believe in tradition and adherence to the norm




Contributed by David B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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