Aspiring Fires

Mother Mother's song 'Aspiring Fires' delves into the complex and often misunderstood concept of 'crazy.' The lyrics challenge the listener's perception of madness, suggesting that what we think we know about being 'crazy' is often superficial or misguided. The opening lines, 'Baby, so you think you know crazy / I think you know what you know / But what you know you don't know for sure,' set the stage for this exploration. The song implies that true madness is not what is often portrayed in media or understood by society at large.

The chorus offers 'a little advice for aspiring fires,' using fire as a metaphor for passion, intensity, and perhaps even madness. The advice is to 'get a little wild' but not to 'blow the lid just to lose your mind.' This suggests a balance between embracing one's wild side and maintaining control. The song warns that without this balance, one risks being 'put out,' or losing their spark. This metaphorical language encourages listeners to find their own path to authenticity without succumbing to destructive behaviors.

The repeated lines, 'Baby, you wanna see me crazy / Well I show you what that's like / And then I wave goodbye as you run for your life,' highlight the fear and misunderstanding that often accompany displays of true emotion or madness. The song critiques the superficial understanding of 'crazy' as something entertaining or glamorous, as suggested by the line, 'Maybe, you're watching too much TV / Because crazy in the box is everything that crazy's not.' This critique extends to societal norms and the media's portrayal of mental health, urging a more nuanced and compassionate understanding.