Brother
mac de marco Lyrics


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You’re no better off, living your life and dreaming at night
This much is true, but it’s still up to you to take my advice

To take it slowly, brother
Let it go now, brother
Take it slowly, brother
Let it go
Go home

You’re better off dead, when your mind’s been set from nine until five
How could it be true, well it’s happened to you, so take my advice

And take it slowly, brother
Let it go now, brother
Take it slowly, brother
Let it go





Go home

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to "Brother" by Mac DeMarco seem to be a message of advice to someone who is struggling in their life- feeling stuck and unhappy with their routine. The first verse suggests that even dreams at night are not providing any solace from the dullness of the everyday. It's said that the person is "no better off" despite having hopes and ambitions, and the singer seems to empathize with their situation. However, the chorus presents a solution, telling the person to "take it slowly" and "let it go". This repetition reflects a gentle encouragement towards finding peace and allowing oneself to relax.


In the second verse, the song becomes more direct in its approach. The lyrics state that the person is actually "better off dead" if they continue to live a life with such a monotonous routine. The singer clearly thinks that the person's mind has been trapped within their 9-5 job, and suggests that they need to take his advice if they want to break free from their struggles. The chorus repeats once more, emphasizing the idea that slowing down and relaxation are essential to finding happiness.


Overall, the song seems to be about finding peace and happiness in life. The lyrics encourage the listener to take a break and reassess, rather than continuing down a path that is unfulfilling. The last line of the song, "Go home", is another indication of this- it's a reminder to return to one's own space and take some time for themselves.


Line by Line Meaning

You’re no better off, living your life and dreaming at night
Your current situation is not improving as you continue to dream without any action towards realizing them.


This much is true, but it’s still up to you to take my advice
The previous statement is a fact, but it's ultimately your decision to take my advice.


To take it slowly, brother
My advice to you is to take things at a comfortable pace, my friend.


Let it go now, brother
It's time to release any stress or worries that are holding you back, my friend.


You're better off dead, when your mind's been set from nine until five
Working a mundane job can be mentally tiring, and sometimes death seems like a better alternative to continuing the routine.


How could it be true, well it’s happened to you, so take my advice
You may not believe it, but it's happened to you and it's important that you take my advice.


Go home
It's time to leave this situation and return to a comfortable and safe place, my friend.




Lyrics © SC PUBLISHING DBA SECRETLY CANADIAN PUB., Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: SAMUEL MACBRIARE DEMARCO

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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