Make a Shadow

Meg Myers' song "Make a Shadow" delves into the complexities of growing up and the desire to hold onto the innocence and freedom of youth. The repeated question, "Why do we get all get so hard?" reflects the struggle of maintaining one's softness and vulnerability in a world that often demands toughness. This line sets the tone for the song, highlighting the internal conflict between the harsh realities of adulthood and the yearning for the simplicity of childhood.

The metaphor of making a shadow with someone suggests a desire for connection and intimacy, a shared space where one can feel safe and understood. Shadows, often associated with darkness and the unknown, here become a place of refuge and comfort. The repeated plea to "take my hand and make a shadow" underscores the need for companionship in navigating life's uncertainties. This theme is further emphasized by the lines, "Run away, run away, let's leave tomorrow," which evoke a sense of escapism and the longing to build a new, idealized world away from the pressures of reality.

Throughout the song, Myers juxtaposes the imagery of shadows with the idea of a heart that is "fire" and "young." This contrast highlights the tension between the hidden, often suppressed parts of oneself and the vibrant, passionate core that refuses to be extinguished. The refrain, "I'm only in the shadows," suggests a feeling of being on the periphery, not fully seen or understood, yet still burning with life and potential. The song ultimately captures the bittersweet nature of growing up, the desire to hold onto one's youthful spirit, and the search for a place where one can truly belong.