Meaning and Lyrics of Coyote, My Little Brother – Spotify Singles by Mitski

The song “Coyote, My Little Brother” by Mitski, is a poignant and introspective piece that delves into themes of environmental destruction, loss, and consequences. The lyrics evoke a sense of regret and sorrow for the harm that has been done to nature and the impact it has on the world.

In the Intro, the repetition of the lines “Coyot’, coyote, What have we done? Little brother, Where, where do you run?” sets the tone for the song, expressing a sense of guilt and a plea for understanding.

In the Verse 1, the imagery of “We strychinined the mountain, We strychinined the plain, Little brother, The coyote won’t come back again” paints a vivid picture of the irreversible damage caused to the natural world, symbolized by the absence of the coyote.

The Verse 2 expands on the consequences of human actions, with the coyote’s song serving as a warning to humanity about its impending destruction. The line “He’s warning the human race of his death” highlights the interconnectedness between nature and humans, as well as the responsibility we bear for our actions.

In Verse 3, the plea “Don’t poison the mesas, Don’t poison the sky, Or you won’t be back, little brother, Goodbye” emphasizes the finality of the damage done and the irreversible loss that results from environmental harm.

The Verse 4 conveys a sense of despair and hopelessness, with the lines “There’ll be no one to listen, And no one to sing, And never, Never will there be spring” indicating the bleak future that awaits if we continue to neglect and destroy the environment.

The Outro brings the song full circle, posing the same questions as the intro, “Coyot’, coyote, What have we done?” The repetition reinforces the sense of reflection, regret, and the urgent need for change.

Overall, Mitski’s “Coyote, My Little Brother” is a moving and thought-provoking song that serves as a reminder of the fragility of the natural world and the profound impact of human actions on the environment. It urges listeners to consider the consequences of their choices and the importance of preserving and protecting our planet for future generations.