Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “Cags” by With the Punches
The song ‘Cags’ by With the Punches evokes themes of optimism, self-reflection, and discovering personal strength. The lyrics of the song contribute to these ideas, with lines such as: “Throw away what makes you feel low, ‘Cause I’m brand new”. The narrator of the song is recognizing that they have the power to shed the parts of their life that draw them down – and feeling motivated and determined to create a better and brighter version of themselves.
The metaphor of ‘Cags’, or cages, is used within the song to highlight this sense of liberation – as the cages are breaking apart. The narrator is reaching a point of personal enlightenment – they are realizing that they have been restrained and contained by their own thoughts, worries, and anxieties, and can now move to break free from them.
The upbeat and poppy vibe of the song mirrors the idea of the narrator beginning to move forward on their new journey – although barriers may be present, the energy and drive of the song emphasizes a focus on breaking free and pushing forward. To quote the lyrics: “We’ve got our feet on the ground, Ready to go, Just about to turn the corners, Of our stone cold cages, It’s time”. It is a reminder that although their circumstances may be restrictive, it is still important to take action and work to create a brighter future.
The final, raise-your-voice chorus of the song reinforces these messages – crescendoing with the lyric: “It’s true, I’m brand new, I’m breaking out of my cage.” This celebrated lyrical moment reinforces the sense of optimism, determination, and strength that the narrator of the song is feeling. With the Punches’ ‘Cags’ is an anthem of positive energy, encouraging the listener to value themselves and their own capabilities to reach a more promising tomorrow.