Song meaning of Coyote, My Little Brother - Spotify Singles by Mitski

"Coyote, My Little Brother" by Mitski is a haunting and poignant song that delves into themes of environmental destruction and the consequences of human actions on nature. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where the coyote, a symbol of the wild and untamed, is disappearing due to human interference. The repeated refrain of "Coyot', coyote, what have we done?" serves as a lament for the damage inflicted upon the natural world.

In the first verse, the imagery of "strychinined the mountain" and "strychinined the plain" suggests the poisoning and contamination of the land, leading to the disappearance of the coyote. The line "The coyote won't come back again" conveys a sense of finality and loss, highlighting the irreversible impact of human actions on the environment.

The second verse introduces the idea of the coyote's warning through its song, symbolizing a last plea for humanity to change its ways before it's too late. The line "He's warning the human race of his death" serves as a stark reminder of the impending consequences of environmental destruction.

The final verses emphasize the importance of preserving nature, with the plea to "Don't poison the mesas, don't poison the sky" echoing the urgent need for conservation and sustainability. The song ends with a sense of despair and resignation, as the absence of the coyote signifies the loss of a vital connection to the natural world.

Overall, "Coyote, My Little Brother" by Mitski is a powerful and thought-provoking song that serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of the environment and the urgent need for environmental stewardship. Through its evocative lyrics and haunting melody, the song conveys a message of responsibility and reflection on the impact of human actions on the world around us.