Parade

Kevin Morby's song 'Parade' delves into the profound themes of self-discovery, loss, and the human condition. The opening lines, 'If you come to find out who you are / And may you find out, may you find out who you are,' set the stage for a journey of introspection. Morby encourages the listener to embark on a quest for identity and purpose, suggesting that such a journey is both essential and deeply personal. The repetition of 'may you find it' underscores the hope and determination required to uncover one's true self, even if it means searching at any cost.

The imagery of a parade serves as a powerful metaphor throughout the song. Morby envisions his own death within the context of a parade, a public display that contrasts with the private nature of self-discovery. 'If I were to die today / Slaughtered in that masquerade / The last thing that you'd hear me say / Put my body on display / In the parade' suggests a desire for recognition and remembrance, even in death. The parade symbolizes the passage of life, with its slow, deliberate movement through the town reflecting the inevitability of time and the communal aspect of human existence.

The chorus, 'All of my friends were there / Waiting on me / All the glory was there / Waiting on me,' highlights the interconnectedness of relationships and the impact of one's life on others. Morby acknowledges the presence of friends and glory, suggesting that our lives are intertwined with those around us and that our actions leave lasting impressions. The song's closing lines, 'Go now, you'll go but just don't hide / Never leave this, never leave this town / Of the parade,' serve as a poignant reminder to embrace life's journey openly and authentically, without succumbing to fear or isolation.