Carry Me Out

Mitski's song "Carry Me Out" is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of longing, solitude, and the desire for escape. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of nighttime scenes, where the protagonist finds solace and a sense of release. The rooftop setting, where she unties her hair and watches the night unfold, symbolizes a moment of personal freedom and introspection. The act of untying her hair can be seen as a metaphor for letting go of daily constraints and embracing her true self under the cover of darkness.

The recurring imagery of flowers and the scent lingering from a morning shower adds a layer of sensory depth to the song. This detail evokes a sense of fleeting beauty and the passage of time, as the protagonist whispers a name into the night, hoping it will be heard among the stars. This act of calling out a name suggests a deep yearning for connection, perhaps with a lost love or a distant memory, highlighting the theme of longing that permeates the song.

Driving in the rain at night introduces another dimension to the narrative. The headlights leading her down a path as dark as the Styx—a river in Greek mythology that separates the living from the dead—suggests a journey towards an unknown or otherworldly destination. This imagery reinforces the idea of seeking an escape from reality, a desire to be carried away from the present moment. The repetition of the phrase "carry me out" serves as a poignant plea for liberation, whether it be from emotional pain, loneliness, or the mundane aspects of life. Mitski's evocative lyrics and melancholic tone create a powerful and relatable portrayal of the human desire for transcendence and connection.