No Below

Speedy Ortiz's song 'No Below' delves into the profound themes of loneliness, mental health struggles, and the redemptive power of friendship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the narrator's past, marked by isolation and emotional pain. The opening lines reflect on childhood experiences of being alone and misunderstood, setting the stage for a narrative that explores the impact of these formative years on the narrator's mental state.

The song's chorus reveals a poignant moment of vulnerability, where the narrator admits to feeling better off dead at one point. This stark confession underscores the depth of their despair. However, the introduction of a friend who 'knew me best' and tried to help, albeit unsuccessfully, highlights the importance of human connection in navigating mental health challenges. This friend represents a beacon of hope, even if their efforts to 'thaw' the narrator out were not entirely successful.

As the song progresses, it shifts to a more hopeful tone. The narrator acknowledges that both they and their friend have experienced similar struggles, and this shared understanding has brought them closer together. The line 'I'm glad for it all if it got us where we are' suggests that the hardships they faced were worth enduring because they led to a meaningful and supportive relationship. The final verse, which describes swimming together, symbolizes a sense of freedom and mutual support, contrasting sharply with the earlier imagery of being 'interred in the ice.' This transformation from isolation to companionship encapsulates the song's core message: that even in our darkest moments, the presence of a true friend can make all the difference.