"Mullet with Butterfly Wings" by Neil Cicierega takes its inspiration from two iconic songs and merges their lyrics together to create a unique juxtaposition. The song predominantly combines two songs: "Bullet with Butterfly Wings" by The Smashing Pumpkins (Part I) and "Working for the Weekend" by Loverboy (Part II).

In Part I, which is primarily drawn from "Bullet with Butterfly Wings," the lyrics evoke a sense of disillusionment and frustration. The world is depicted as a malevolent force that drains and destroys individuals, leaving them feeling trapped and powerless. The repetition of the line "Despite all my rage, I am still just a rat in a cage" highlights the narrator's sense of helplessness in the face of their circumstances. The references to being naked and wanting to change indicate a desire for authenticity and transformation.

In Part II, which borrows from "Working for the Weekend," the lyrics shift to a more energetic and hopeful tone. The focus is on the desire for escape and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. The chorus emphasizes the universal yearning for the weekend, a time associated with freedom, romance, and second chances. The post-chorus lines "You want a piece of my heart? You better start from start / You wanna be in the show? Come on, baby, let's go" suggest an invitation to embrace new experiences and opportunities.

The song's incorporation of these contrasting feelings and sentiments presents a unique commentary on the complexities of the human experience. It captures the duality of feeling trapped and seeking liberation, while also expressing the universal desires for authenticity, change, and second chances. Overall, "Mullet with Butterfly Wings" explores the themes of disillusionment, longing for freedom, and the eternal search for meaning and self-fulfillment in a world that often feels confining.