What The Sun Come Up
Mac Miller
Embracing the Ephemeral: Mac Miller's 'What The Sun Come Up'
Mac Miller's 'What The Sun Come Up' is a reflective piece that delves into the transient nature of life and the importance of living in the moment. The lyrics convey a sense of fleeting time, with the artist acknowledging the impermanence of his experiences. The line '24/4, now I say things are lookin' up, but I could be drunk' suggests a state of uncertainty and the possibility that his optimism might be influenced by temporary factors. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, where Miller grapples with the idea of being present and not getting 'stuck' in the rush of life.
The metaphor of the 'brand new summer rain' is particularly poignant, symbolizing both renewal and the inevitable passage of time. Rain, often associated with cleansing and new beginnings, here also represents the cyclical nature of life—moments come and go, much like the rain. Miller's repetition of 'down, down, down, down' emphasizes the downward trajectory, perhaps hinting at the lows that follow the highs, a common theme in his music.
The song also touches on the toll that love and relationships can take, as seen in the line 'Lovin' that you’re takin' it's toll, tell you everything that I know.' Despite sharing his knowledge and experiences, Miller acknowledges that it 'don’t mean much' when one is in a rush. This highlights the struggle between wanting to connect deeply with others and the reality of life's fast pace. The idea of 'taking it slow' and 'watching the sun come up' serves as a reminder to savor the present, even as it inevitably fades away. Through this song, Mac Miller invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and the importance of embracing each moment as it comes.