Atlas

The Dip's song 'Atlas' is a heartfelt plea to a friend who is burdened by the weight of the world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is constantly putting others before themselves, to the point of exhaustion. The opening lines describe a late-night return from the hospital, where the friend has been sitting by their best friend's side. This selfless act is followed by an early morning trip downtown, highlighting the relentless pace at which this person lives their life, always prioritizing others over their own well-being.

The chorus serves as a gentle reminder that it's not their responsibility to carry the world's burdens alone. The repeated line, 'Don't put the world on your shoulders, 'cause you know it ain't your load to bear,' emphasizes the importance of self-care and the need to share the weight with others. The song acknowledges the friend's big heart and their tendency to care deeply for others, but it also points out the toll this takes on them. The narrator's concern is palpable, wishing their friend would take a moment for themselves.

The song's bridge delves deeper into the emotional strain, describing the pressure building up inside the friend. The lyrics, 'It's too much for one person to hold,' underscore the unsustainable nature of their self-imposed responsibilities. The Dip uses 'Atlas,' the mythological figure who carried the heavens on his shoulders, as a metaphor for the friend's overwhelming sense of duty. The song is a compassionate call for balance, urging the friend to recognize that they don't have to bear their burdens alone and that it's okay to seek help and take time for themselves.