How Do You Feel?

The Maine's song 'How Do You Feel?' is a poignant exploration of emotional vulnerability and the often-overlooked struggles of mental health. The lyrics open with a direct address to those who are 'dearly depressed and broken hearted,' immediately setting a tone of empathy and understanding. The line 'boys cry too' challenges societal norms that discourage men from expressing their emotions, emphasizing that everyone, regardless of gender, experiences pain and sorrow.

The recurring question, 'How do you feel?' serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of checking in on one's emotional state. The song delves into the complexities of human emotions, asking whether one is truly free or merely 'being borrowed,' a metaphor that suggests living a life dictated by external pressures rather than personal fulfillment. The repeated inquiry about whether one is 'alive but are you living?' further underscores the difference between mere existence and a life filled with genuine experiences and emotions.

The chorus, with its series of probing questions—'Do your hands shake? Does your heart break? When the earth quakes'—captures the physical manifestations of emotional turmoil. The Maine encourages listeners to confront their feelings head-on, urging them to ensure that whatever they are experiencing is 'real.' This insistence on authenticity highlights the band's message that acknowledging and validating one's emotions is crucial for mental well-being. By addressing the 'inbetweens and all the torn ones,' the song creates a sense of community and solidarity, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their struggles.