Anti Curse

In 'Anti Curse,' Boygenius delves into the complexities of self-reflection and the struggle to find peace amidst internal chaos. The song opens with vivid imagery of being out of one's depth at a public beach, symbolizing a sense of being overwhelmed and unprepared for the challenges faced. The waves represent intrusive thoughts that bombard the mind, likened to a pinball machine's relentless motion. This metaphor captures the uncontrollable nature of these thoughts and the feeling of being under constant mental assault.

The lyrics then shift to a more introspective tone, where the narrator grapples with their mortality and the inevitability of death. The line 'Salt in my lungs, holding my breath' evokes a sense of suffocation and the struggle to stay afloat in the face of overwhelming odds. Despite these challenges, the narrator reflects on their life, acknowledging their efforts to be a good friend and an 'honest fool' despite their numerous flaws and bad habits. This self-assessment is tinged with a sense of resignation and acceptance of their imperfections.

The song also touches on themes of youth and rebellion, reminiscing about breaking curfew and unpacking existential questions in the suburbs. These memories serve as a backdrop to the narrator's current state of mind, highlighting the contrast between youthful naivety and the harsh realities of adulthood. The closing lines introduce the concept of an 'anti-curse,' suggesting that the act of writing and expressing oneself can serve as a form of healing or blessing. This idea underscores the therapeutic power of creativity and the potential for self-redemption through art.