“Mirror” is the outro to Kendrick Lamar’s fifth studio album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. He discusses the pressures of fame and the dichotomy of living selfishly despite his modest image.

The song’s production sees a heavy Funk and Neo Soul influence due to the bounciness of the beat. The heavy drums in the background of the track give the song an 80s skate-like vibe, forcing Kendrick’s cadence to follow its pattern.

In the song, Kendrick articulately sums up the majority of the themes of the album. “Mirror” serves as a metaphor for one’s own personal growth, suggesting to Kendrick fans that despite his long wait to release music, they shouldn’t wait on him and should grow on their own.

Kendrick makes it clear that due to his newborn daughter, his oldest child, and his wife, he will always put himself first—except for his family—as he can’t sacrifice the little time he has with his family for anyone.

What may seem to be a more basic album outro in comparison to DAMN.’s outro, “DUCKWORTH.,” the song’s deeper meaning reflects on his wait to release music, exhibiting his growth for his fans. Kendrick speaks deeply about the pressure he feels in order to take care of his family in the best way, subsequently, taking time off to find himself.