Best Boy
The Saxophones
Navigating the Complexities of Youth and Emotion in 'Best Boy'
The Saxophones' song 'Best Boy' delves into the intricate and often confusing emotions experienced during youth. The lyrics reflect a sense of existential questioning and emotional turmoil. The opening lines, 'Who's to say what I mean? I'm just a body that feels this way,' suggest a struggle with self-expression and understanding. The protagonist feels misunderstood and hurt by communication that doesn't resonate with them, highlighting the pain of miscommunication and the isolation it can bring.
The song continues to explore physical and emotional discomfort, with lines like 'There's a pain in my teeth, there's a pain in my feet, there's a feeling of dread I can't reach, but it feels good.' This juxtaposition of pain and pleasure suggests a complex relationship with suffering, where the discomfort is almost a familiar, comforting presence. The mention of a 'pity party' at the protagonist's house further emphasizes the theme of self-pity and the desire for connection, albeit in a controlled and limited way. The warning to 'just be sure you don't open my mouth' indicates a fear of vulnerability and being truly understood.
The final lines, 'Though I came with questions, I've resisted answers from the start of it, cause my religious leanin' is all about the feelin',' reveal a philosophical stance that prioritizes emotional experience over concrete answers. This reflects a broader theme of seeking meaning through feelings rather than rational thought, a common sentiment in youth. The song captures the essence of navigating the complexities of growing up, where emotions are intense, and the search for identity and understanding is ongoing.