Over Everything

Courtney Barnett's 'Over Everything' is a reflective exploration of solitude, creativity, and the omnipresence of sound in our lives. The song opens with Barnett describing moments of isolation, where she finds solace in her guitar, using music as a means to express and process her emotions. The phrase 'over everything' suggests that music, particularly the blues riffs she plays, transcends all other aspects of her life, providing a constant backdrop to her experiences.

The lyrics also delve into the dichotomy of Barnett's internal and external worlds. She describes her routine of speed-reading the morning news and creating her own songs, highlighting how she processes the overwhelming influx of information and emotions. The imagery of a beautiful morning with trees 'waggin'' and her 'hair-flag waving' contrasts with the 'smog' that hangs over everything, symbolizing the persistent presence of negativity or challenges in life. This juxtaposition underscores the idea that even in moments of joy, there are underlying issues that cannot be ignored.

Barnett's reflections on her changing relationship with music and sound further illustrate the theme of adaptation and resilience. She reminisces about her younger days when she enjoyed loud music without concern, but now she deals with a 'high-pitched ring' that forces her to use earplugs. This shift signifies the inevitable changes that come with time and experience, yet her dedication to music remains unwavering. The repetition of 'over everything' throughout the song emphasizes the pervasive influence of music in her life, serving as both a refuge and a means of expression.