How Low

In 'How Low,' José González delves into the destructive nature of selfish ambition and the inevitable consequences that follow. The song opens with a poignant question, asking how far one is willing to go to achieve their self-centered goals. This sets the tone for a critical examination of the relentless pursuit of personal gain at the expense of others. The repeated phrase 'punch line after punch line' suggests a series of actions or decisions that continuously harm those around the individual, leaving emotional and perhaps even physical scars.

González uses vivid metaphors to illustrate the impact of such behavior. The line 'You're feeding a monster' implies that the individual's actions are not just harmful but are also growing into something uncontrollable and dangerous. This 'monster' could symbolize greed, corruption, or any form of destructive force that thrives on selfishness. The repetition of 'invasion after invasion' and the declaration 'this means war' further emphasize the escalating conflict and turmoil caused by these actions. It paints a picture of a relentless assault on integrity and morality, leading to a state of perpetual conflict.

The song also serves as a warning about the eventual fallout of such behavior. González predicts that someday, the individual will be 'up to your knees in the shit you seed,' indicating that the negative consequences of their actions will eventually catch up to them. The mention of 'all the gullible that you mislead' highlights the collateral damage inflicted on innocent people who were deceived or manipulated. The closing lines question where the individual will go now that their actions have led to a state of war, suggesting that there is no easy escape from the chaos they have created. Through 'How Low,' González offers a powerful critique of selfish ambition and a reminder of the inevitable reckoning that follows.