How High

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a hazy picture of a life lived in a perpetual state of altered consciousness, driven by a desire for escapism. The opening lines immediately establish a casual disregard for social norms, with the narrator stating "Excuse me, still not enough to smoke" and offering to share a "spirit bomb" – a clear nod to consuming substances. This sets the stage for a narrative where the immediate gratification of getting high takes precedence over conventional responsibilities or even basic awareness of time, as evidenced by waking up "in broad daylight with eyes bright red." This pursuit of a higher state, however, feels less like an ascent and more like a descent into a detached reality. The repeated imagery of being "up in smoke" and the casual mention of mixing pills suggest a lifestyle where reality is constantly being blurred. The chorus, with its repeated "How high?" and the instruction to "Kiss the sky" even without motivation, underscores this theme. It's a call to elevate, but the context implies this elevation is achieved through artificial means, creating a disconnect between the aspiration and the method. The lyrics also highlight a sense of camaraderie within this lifestyle, emphasizing friendship and shared experiences. Phrases like "Team, drinking pills with friends" and "all my friends get weed" point to a collective embrace of this escapist culture. Yet, there's an underlying tension, a hint of defiance against external judgment. The narrator dismisses concerns about authenticity with "Don't ask me about real or fake," and embraces a nihilistic outlook, stating, "I can die the day after tomorrow and it's fine." This suggests a conscious choice to live in the moment, however detached, rather than conform to societal expectations. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their raw, unfiltered portrayal of a specific subculture. The casual slang, the direct references to drug use, and the unbothered tone create an immersive experience. The contrast between the mundane (waking up, seeing birds) and the elevated state (kissing the sky, flying) is jarring and compelling, capturing the essence of a lifestyle that prioritizes feeling good, even if it means living with "droopy eyes."