Leaving Toronto Lyrics – Daniel Caesar, Mustafa

Leaving Toronto Lyrics Meaning

[Intro]
In the intro, the speaker expresses a mix of frustration and resignation. They mention dropping something significant, possibly referring to emotional burdens or responsibilities. The mention of a Glock suggests a feeling of danger or threat, while saying they don’t “heart a lot” hints at emotional detachment or numbness.

[Chorus]
In the chorus, the artists declare they’re leaving Toronto, feeling that the city no longer offers anything meaningful to them. Despite having held onto everything it had to give, they sense emptiness. Driving to Montreal symbolizes their need for an escape where they can grieve and reflect. They also express a desire to learn how to be alone, keeping their fear of abandonment hidden away. There’s a yearning for connection, even as they acknowledge the destructive aspects of their life in the city.

[Verse 1]
This verse touches on the regret of past words and the weight of lost friendships. The speaker feels overwhelmed and struggles to find peace, highlighted by their inability to sleep, indicating restless thoughts and emotional turmoil.

[Pre-Chorus]
In the pre-chorus, the artist reflects on returning to memories of the past, suggesting they feel trapped in those moments. They describe a sense of urgency in wanting to reconnect with their past, even if it means confronting painful memories. Questions about a bruise or someone’s face imply unresolved issues. The repeated mention of “seeing you” hints at a desire for clarity and closure in their relationships.

[Chorus]
Here, the speaker reiterates their decision to leave Toronto, expressing a deep frustration with the city. They convey a wish to drown the place in their emotions, feeling that no other location allows them to truly be themselves or brings the comfort of home.

[Verse 2]
In this verse, the artist reflects on a past relationship, questioning if they were given a complete commitment. They also acknowledge the growth of a younger sibling, suggesting feelings of nostalgia and the weight of time. The contrast between their current state and the innocence of youth adds to the song’s emotional depth.

[Pre-Chorus]
The pre-chorus repeats the theme of running back to the past, emphasizing the urgency of revisiting lost connections. The imagery of running through their memories portrays a sense of desperation and the fear of losing important people. The repeated phrase hints at a cycle of longing and the hope of reconciliation.

[Interlude]
This interlude revisits the initial themes of frustration and emotional detachment. The repetition of dropping a bag suggests a recurring struggle with responsibilities or burdens. It reinforces the idea that while they might seem tough, they’re still wrestling with their emotions and vulnerabilities.

[Outro]
In the outro, the artist confronts the potential for violence and death, expressing a raw vulnerability about their life. They wish to be buried next to their brother, emphasizing familial bonds and loss. The request for a lawyer for their killer and prayers for light in their grave reflect deep-seated fears and a yearning for justice and peace. This conclusion powerfully encapsulates the weight of their experiences and the search for meaning amidst chaos.