Fairly Local

Twenty One Pilots' song 'Fairly Local' delves into the themes of personal struggle and identity within a community. The lyrics oscillate between self-doubt and self-assurance, reflecting an internal conflict that many listeners can relate to. The repetition of 'I'm fairly local, I’ve been around' suggests a sense of belonging and familiarity with the environment, yet there's an underlying tension as the song explores the darker aspects of the self.

The chorus contrasts two sides of the narrator's personality: one that succumbs to negative impulses ('What I shouldn't do I will') and one that fights against them ('What I shouldn't do I will fight'). This duality captures the human experience of grappling with one's own morality and the choices that define us. The phrase 'the few, the proud, and the emotional' could be interpreted as a rallying cry for those who feel deeply and are often misunderstood by the broader society. It's a call to embrace one's emotions as a source of strength rather than weakness.

The song also touches on the idea of resistance to mainstream culture ('this song will never be on the radio'). It's a declaration of independence from the pressures of conforming to popular expectations, and a celebration of the unique bond shared by those who identify with the band's message. The reference to being 'bulletproof in black like a funeral' might symbolize the resilience of the community in the face of external challenges, standing united in their shared experiences and emotions.