Brand New – “The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot” Lyrics Meaning

The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot is a raw, emotional dive into the complexities of relationships and self-worth. It’s about acknowledging flaws, longing for forgiveness, and wanting to be remembered. The song paints a picture of someone willing to make immense sacrifices for another, even if it means self-deprecation or putting oneself in the shadows. The songwriter’s message? Sometimes love makes us put the other person’s happiness before our own, even if it means diminishing our self-worth.

If you’ve ever felt the sting of love, the weight of regret, or the chill of isolation, keep reading. This is one song that’ll resonate.


“The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot” Lyrics Meaning

At its core, this song captures the essence of vulnerability and sacrifice. “If it makes you less sad, I will die by your hand” – right off the bat, there’s a willingness to put oneself second for the sake of another’s happiness. This sentiment continues, with the singer taking responsibility for their own flaws (“You can tell me how vile I already know that I am”).

The line “I’ll grow old, start acting my age” hints at a sense of maturity and acceptance, but it’s followed by “It’ll be a brand new day in a life that you hate,” suggesting that no matter how much they change, it might not be enough to mend what’s broken.

The chorus, “Call me a safe bet, I’m betting I’m not,” is a beautiful paradox. It’s as if the singer is a safety net, dependable and steady, yet inside, they feel anything but.

The theme of self-deprecation continues with “Every picture you paint, I will paint myself out.” Here, the singer’s own identity and worth become so overshadowed by the relationship that they’re willing to erase themselves from the narrative. The lines “So call it quits, or get a grip” highlight the struggle of wanting to hold on, yet knowing when it might be time to let go.

Towards the end, the song takes a more uplifting turn. Descriptions like “You are calm and reposed,” “You are the smell before rain,” and “You are the blood in my veins” elevate the person in focus, painting them in an almost divine light.

The Story Behind “The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot”

When we dive into the backdrop of this song, we find a songwriter at the crossroads of introspection and outward expression. At this point in their life, they’re wrestling with emotions that are both deeply personal yet universally relatable.

While the song isn’t directly attributed to a specific event or person, it’s evident that it stems from a place of raw emotion and real-life experiences. The sense of longing, the desire to be remembered, and the feeling of never quite measuring up are feelings many have grappled with at some point.

It’s the intimate blend of self-doubt and the pangs of love that gives the song its depth. The state of mind of the songwriter seems to be one of reflection, almost as if they’re replaying moments, conversations, and feelings in their head.

Furthermore, there’s an interesting dichotomy in the narrative. On one hand, there’s a self-awareness about one’s shortcomings, and on the other, there’s a deep-seated need for acceptance and love. These conflicting emotions are what make this song not just a ballad about a relationship gone sour but also a contemplative journey into the human psyche.

In essence, “The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot” is not just a song; it’s a mirror reflecting complex emotions that resonate deeply with those who’ve ever dared to love and lose.