Abbey

Mitski's song 'Abbey' delves into the profound sense of yearning and existential hunger that characterizes much of the human experience. The lyrics repeatedly emphasize a state of hunger, not in the literal sense, but as a metaphor for a deep-seated desire for meaning, purpose, or fulfillment. The phrase 'I am hungry' suggests an ongoing, perhaps lifelong, quest for something that remains elusive. This hunger is intrinsic, as indicated by 'I was born hungry,' pointing to a universal human condition.

The song also explores the dichotomy between light and darkness, both literally and metaphorically. The light represents clarity, hope, or perhaps an epiphany, which paradoxically is only visible amidst personal darkness. This could imply that self-awareness and understanding often come from difficult or challenging times. The recurring dream motif in the song suggests a subconscious longing for liberation or an escape from the constraints of reality. The dream 'sleeps in me' and awakens 'every night, crying, set me free,' which could be interpreted as a call for release from the internal or external factors that bind the individual.

Overall, 'Abbey' is a poignant reflection on the human condition, touching on themes of existential desire, the search for identity ('What could I be?'), and the struggle between hope and despair. Mitski's evocative lyrics and emotive delivery invite listeners to contemplate their own inner 'hunger' and the dreams that stir within them, seeking freedom and fulfillment.