Pet Cheetah

Twenty One Pilots' song 'Pet Cheetah' from their album 'Trench' is a complex piece that delves into the themes of creativity, pressure, and the music-making process. The lyrics present a metaphorical narrative where the lead singer, Tyler Joseph, describes feeling isolated and under pressure to produce music ('Eight days straight, eight hours each and not one line'). The 'island' represents his sense of seclusion during the creative process, and the 'pressure' symbolizes the expectations and demands of the music industry.

The chorus, where Joseph expresses a desire to 'move slow' and 'stop time,' reflects his wish to take control of the creative process and not be rushed by external pressures. The 'problem' he refers to could be the challenge of finding inspiration or dealing with writer's block. The pet cheetah, named Jason Statham, is a quirky and imaginative metaphor for Joseph's creativity and speed in the studio. The cheetah represents the swift and powerful force of his artistic talent, which he has nurtured and trained to help him produce music.

The song also touches on themes of identity and belonging, as Joseph mentions 'this clique means so much to this dude,' referring to the band's fan base and the sense of community they share. The fear of losing his music ('be scared to death he could lose it') suggests the vulnerability artists feel about their work and the fear of not living up to expectations. Overall, 'Pet Cheetah' is a dynamic exploration of the internal struggles of an artist, the pressures of the music industry, and the importance of community support in the creative journey.