The Baddy Man

Mitski's song "The Baddy Man" delves into the unsettling presence of a sinister figure lurking within the recesses of one's mind. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the 'baddy man' as a metaphorical entity that represents intrusive thoughts, fears, or perhaps even past traumas. This figure is described as 'creepin' through the alleys of your mind,' suggesting a stealthy and pervasive influence that is difficult to shake off. The use of words like 'sneakin' and 'schemin'' further emphasizes the deceptive and insidious nature of these thoughts or memories.

The song also touches on the idea of subjective truth and the unreliable nature of memory. The line 'What those dead men say that they do / Will never be the absolute truth' suggests that the stories we tell ourselves, or the memories we hold, are often distorted or incomplete. This could be a reflection on how past experiences shape our present thoughts and behaviors, often in ways that are not entirely accurate or truthful. The 'baddy man' could thus be seen as a symbol of these distorted memories or internalized fears that continue to haunt us.

Mitski's inclusion of a 'robot lady' and the plea 'You still there, robot lady? / 'Cause I hate singing alone' adds another layer of complexity to the song. This could be interpreted as a cry for help or a desire for companionship in facing these internal demons. The repetitive 'doo doo doo doo doo' and 'mm-mm-mm-mm' sections create a haunting, almost hypnotic atmosphere, reinforcing the idea of being trapped in a cycle of intrusive thoughts. Overall, "The Baddy Man" is a haunting exploration of the darker corners of the mind, filled with metaphorical and emotional depth.