Meaning of Big House by Death Grips

The Overwhelming Presence of Los Angeles: Unpacking the Meaning of Death Grips’ "Big House"

As I first listened to Death Grips’ "Big House", I was struck by the sense of unease and discomfort that permeates the song. The lyrics seem to capture the overwhelming and disorienting nature of living in a bustling city like Los Angeles, conveying a sense of being consumed and trapped within its presence. In this article, we’ll delve into the meaning behind "Big House" and explore how it reflects the experiences of those who call LA home.

A City That Consumes

The song’s opening lines, "L.A. creepin’ under my skin", set the tone for the rest of the track. The repeated phrase emphasizes the profound impact that the city has on the narrator, suggesting that they feel suffocated and consumed by it. This sentiment is echoed in the lyrics "I’m in the fuckin’ big house", which can be interpreted as an expression of feeling trapped and confined within the vastness of Los Angeles.

A Sense of Disorientation

The lyrics of "Big House" are filled with imagery that conveys a sense of disorientation and disconnection. The mention of a "big island" in the first verse could be a metaphorical representation of Los Angeles as a vast and isolating place. The reference to a "cut off eyelid" symbolizes a loss of perception or understanding, possibly indicating a feeling of being disconnected and unable to truly see or comprehend one’s surroundings.

A Desperate Search for Escape

The song’s chorus, "Bout out of time speed checkmate", suggests a sense of urgency and desperation. The narrator is searching for something beyond what the city offers, a desire to escape and find meaning elsewhere. This sentiment is echoed in the line "Nothing ’round here I must see more", which implies a sense of disillusionment and a longing for something more.

Trapped in the City

The second verse of "Big House" further emphasizes the narrator’s desperation and disillusionment. They mention feeling lost, having gone too far, and being disconnected from basic necessities like a phone, a landline, a computer, and a car. This sense of disconnection and isolation is a common theme in the song, and it’s one that many people who have lived in LA can relate to.

A Reflection of the Human Experience

"Big House" is more than just a song about the city of Los Angeles – it’s a reflection of the human experience. The feelings of disorientation, disconnection, and desperation that the narrator expresses are universal, and they can be applied to any city or situation. The song is a powerful reminder that, no matter where we are in the world, we are all searching for something more, something that will bring us a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

A Personal Connection

As someone who has lived in LA for several years, I can attest to the overwhelming presence of the city. There are times when the noise, the crowds, and the constant stimulation can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel like you’re just going through the motions. But "Big House" is a reminder that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, and that it’s okay to search for something more.

Conclusion

"Big House" by Death Grips is a powerful and thought-provoking song that captures the overwhelming and disorienting nature of living in a bustling city like Los Angeles. The lyrics convey a sense of unease and discomfort, and they reflect the universal human experience of searching for something more. Whether you’re a native Angeleno or just visiting, "Big House" is a song that will resonate with you, and it’s a reminder that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and to search for something more.

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