Race

Alex G's song 'Race' is a complex and introspective piece that seems to delve into themes of authenticity, self-deception, and the ephemeral nature of understanding oneself and others. The lyrics suggest a confrontation with someone who is not what they appear to be, as indicated by the lines 'You're walking on hot coals now you fuck' and 'you're a joke, yeah, you're a hoax and now I found you out.' This could be interpreted as a moment of realization where the speaker sees through someone's facade, recognizing that the person they thought they knew is actually putting on an act.

The song also touches on the fleeting nature of self-awareness and the difficulty of maintaining a consistent identity. The lyrics 'And I could be your man all day / And you could look inside my brain and see this one thing / But then it disappears like smoke and you're alone' suggest that even when we think we understand ourselves or others, that clarity can vanish, leaving us feeling isolated. The metaphor of smoke is particularly evocative, representing something that is visible but intangible and easily dissipated.

Finally, the chorus 'Tear it down / It's not right' could be a call to dismantle the illusions or false structures in one's life. It's a rejection of the inauthentic and a desire to get back to what is genuine and true. The song's title, 'Race,' might imply the constant struggle and competition to maintain appearances or keep up with societal expectations, which ultimately leads to a loss of genuine connection and understanding.