Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “Cutting Corners” by Transit
The song “Cutting Corners” by Transit is a song that speaks of the theme of ambition and the consequential vulnerabilities that comes with it. As the title suggests, it’s a warning about the risks of compromising one’s morals and values through a desire to succeed or be accepted.
The song opens up with the lyrics “I’m doing what I can to get ahead in life,” suggesting the protagonist is striving to take whatever measure necessary to get to where they want to be even if it means compromising their morals. The chorus reflects the challenge of navigating the gray areas in life and gives a sense of unease when it conveys, “I’m left wondering whether it’s wrong or right, trying not to cut corners.” It paints a dilemma between the short-term gains and the long-term consequences of taking such paths.
The lyrics then go on to illustrate the double-edged sword of cutting corners. Verses likens the daring ambition and determination to defy risk-taking of the protagonist to a lion in search of its prey; they visualise success and feel encouraged, persuaded even by the symbol of strength. However, on the flipside of this, precariously, the protagonist voices out the weariness and ignorance of the risks in the lines “just don’t know how far I should take it.”
Ultimately, “Cutting Corners” urges the listener to reflect, to evaluate their own ambitions to make sure they’re willing to take the risks entailed and remain incorruptible. As the bridge suggests, “I can only hope that I won’t take it too far,” is an assurance of the protagonist’s resolute to guard against any personal and moral downfall while still pursuing success.