"Under the Gun" by Electric Guest tells the stories of two individuals, Damon A. and Maya Mi, who are both facing hardships and trying to pursue their dreams. The song explores themes of isolation, searching for belonging, and the challenges of chasing fame and freedom. The first verse introduces Damon A., who was born in Santa Fe to a girl who had little knowledge of the world. She encourages him to go for fame, but Damon is unsure and wants to explain his hesitation. Throughout his life, Damon feels that things are never quite right, but he continues to work towards his dream amidst hearing the constant urging to go for fame. However, despite his efforts, he is ultimately shut down and left to feel alone. The second verse shifts the focus to Maya Mi, who hated Tennessee and decides to leave. She calls her dad halfway through her journey and expresses her desire for freedom, to which he responds that she won't see him if she wants to be free. Maya agrees and wants her independence. She finds work but feels that something is wrong inside her. Similar to Damon, she faces rejection and is shot down. The chorus highlights the loneliness and need for a home that both Damon and Maya feel. They question whether they were born to be alone, searching for a place where they truly belong. The bridge introduces the idea that everyone wants their own way and freedom in the promised land, but there is a sense of waiting and having to be patient. It conveys the notion that obtaining one's desires and finding true freedom can be challenging and may not come easily. In the final lines of the song, the narrator expresses a longing to hit the road and find what they are searching for, even though they are uncertain about what exactly that is. The song ends with a plea for help in understanding and explaining their situation. Overall, "Under the Gun" portrays the struggles of individuals who are trying to navigate their dreams, societal pressures, and the search for their place in the world. It reflects on the feelings of isolation, longing for freedom, and the difficulties faced along the way.
