Hot Mulligan's song 'Shouldn't Have a Leg Hole but I Do' delves into the struggles of dealing with persistent mental health issues. The track expresses a sense of resignation and acceptance of these ongoing challenges. The lyrics convey a cyclic journey of attempting to change, only to end up back in the same state of mind, symbolizing the feeling of being trapped in one's own mental patterns.
The emotional journey of 'Shouldn't Have a Leg Hole but I Do' by Hot Mulligan commences with a feeling of weariness. The protagonist hangs their hat, symbolically indicating an intention to stay put, but even the door seems to evade their grasp, suggesting an inability to leave troubled thoughts behind. As the lyrics unfold, there's a realization that every effort to change is futile, only leading back to the same situation, creating a sense of being stuck in a loop.
As the song progresses, the artist explores different means of coping, such as meditation or medicine, but concludes that they're not meant to live a carefree life. There’s a mournful acceptance of a 'guilty fate,' with the individual worrying about the impact of their potential absence on their father, which adds a layer of familial concern to the personal struggles.
Amidst the grappling with inner turmoil, there's a poignant acknowledgment that fighting one's nature only strengthens its hold. The lyrics speak to a recognition that despite all attempts to fix oneself, there seems to be nothing but wasted potential and a trail of mistakes. This brings about a profound sense of despair and resignation in the notion that one's flaws are intrinsic.
The journey culminates with the character no longer desiring to leave, feeling trapped by familiar surroundings, and the flickering fluorescent light as a metaphor for beckoning thoughts. There is a bitter understanding that arises, as paths and variables in life appear predestined to lead them back to the start, reinforcing the cyclic and sometimes inescapable nature of mental struggles.
"Every change I make will inevitably lead me back"
Illustrates the frustrating cycle of trying to improve or alter something in one's life but always returning to the starting point.
"Guilty fate, hope my father don't take it on himself if I'm gone"
This line portrays the weight of personal demons and the concern for how one's struggles might affect loved ones, especially family members.
"Ignoring my nature, just strengthens the bond"
This suggests that denial of one's inherent traits or issues may deepen their impact, creating a more powerful and lasting influence.
"I begin to understand every path every variable made so it'll bring me back, me back, me back"
Reflects the feeling of inevitability and the insight that regardless of the choices made, they seem to lead back to the same emotional place.