Meaning and Lyrics of Settling Things by Lauren Watkins

“Settling Things” by Lauren Watkins depicts the struggles and desires of small-town life, where the familiarity of routines and expectations can create a sense of entrapment and resignation. The lyrics in the song use vivid imagery to paint a picture of a community where individuals feel both content and restless at the same time.

In the verses, we see a snapshot of daily life – from mundane activities like watching TV, warming up frozen meals, to family dynamics and the pursuit of education. These scenes convey a sense of comfort and stability on the surface but also hint at underlying dissatisfaction and a longing for something more.

The chorus captures a contradiction – of everyone heading towards a better place (heaven), yet feeling unable to escape the limitations of their current circumstances. The mention of the high heels that no longer fit symbolizes the outgrowing of the expectations and roles imposed on individuals in such settings. There’s a subtle rebellion and resignation intertwined in the lines, reflecting the emotional conflict of settling for a life that doesn’t entirely fulfill one’s aspirations.

The bridge highlights a glimmer of hope and determination to break free from the confines of the familiar. The desire to leave, to explore beyond what is known, is a common theme in small-town narratives. It signifies a yearning for change, growth, and self-discovery.

The outro encapsulates the internal struggle of the narrator, torn between the comfort of familiarity and the need for something more fulfilling. The imagery of settling like rust on the chains of a porch swing reflects the gradual acceptance of a life that may not align with one’s true desires.

Overall, “Settling Things” captures the complex emotions that come with living in a small town, where individuals wrestle with the tension between conformity and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. The song resonates with anyone who has felt the pull of both staying rooted in the known and venturing into the unknown to seek a more fulfilling existence.