The song "Middle Man" by Elvis Depressedly tells a story about someone who is struggling with their mental and emotional well-being. The repeated phrase "Falling, falling, falling / Falling ill" implies that the narrator is experiencing a downward spiral in their mental state. They have visions of a middle man whom they desire to kill. This middle man could symbolize someone or something that is causing them difficulty or acting as an obstacle in their life. It could represent a person, an institution, or even a mental blockage. The narrator feels as if they are deteriorating and decaying without anyone noticing their pain. They express their desire to cleanse themselves of everything that is burdening them mentally while their mind is deteriorating. To cope with their struggles, the narrator resorts to self-harm or destructive behavior, symbolized by their intention to purchase a gun online. They are desperate to find some peace or resolution before they reach their breaking point, alluding to crossing the finish line. The repeated lines "Falling, falling, falling / Falling ill / Visions of a middle man I have to kill" suggest that the narrator is obsessed with their desire to overcome their struggles and eliminate the middle man preventing their happiness or progress. In the second verse, the narrator reflects on the incomprehension they face from others. They describe how they have given everything they have, metaphorically and emotionally, but do not receive recognition or support in return. They may feel isolated and unheard. The line "I speak in tongues when I say goodbye online" suggests that the narrator may communicate their pain or struggles with others online or through social media. The use of "speaking in tongues" implies their communication may be misunderstood or lost in translation, further exacerbating their feelings of loneliness and desperation. Ultimately, the repeated plea to "Make peace with God before I cross the finish line" highlights the narrator's desire for some form of solace, resolution, or reconciliation before they reach the breaking point. They seek comfort and hope in a higher power, perhaps as a means to find understanding and a path towards healing. Overall, "Middle Man" conveys the struggle of someone battling their inner demons, feeling helpless and overlooked, while desperately seeking a way to regain their peace of mind and find a sense of purpose or resolution in their life.
