Single File
Unveiling Inner Scars: Elliott Smith's Single File Meaning
Lyrics
Here in line
Reflecting on the current situation or circumstance
Where stupid shit collides
Describing a convergence of foolish actions or events
With dying shooting stars
Mentioning a moment when aspirations or dreams are fading away
All we got to show what we really are
Expressing that tangible evidence of true identity is limited
Is the same kind of scars
Highlighting shared experiences of pain or hardship
And looking at you all I see is
Observing someone with an expectation or anticipation
You're waiting for something
Suggesting a sense of longing or anticipation in the person observed
Single file
Indicating a prescribed order or arrangement
You're a murder mile
Characterizing a path marked by destructive tendencies
You idiot kid
Addressing someone as foolish or inexperienced
Your arm's got a death in it
Noting a metaphorical element of mortality or decay
If you're choking up take this paper cup
Suggesting a remedy for emotional distress
But there's a price you'll pay
Warning about the consequences of striving to conform to societal expectations
For trying hard to become whatever they are
Criticizing the attempt to adopt others' identities and beliefs
And saying whatever they say
Highlighting the risk of blindly following others
So help yourself to this bitter pill
Offering a metaphorical solution to difficulties or challenges
Or somebody else will
Emphasizing the importance of self-help and personal responsibility
Single file
Reiterating the idea of a prescribed order or arrangement
You're a murder mile
Reinforcing the destructive nature of the chosen path
You idiot kid
Repeatedly addressing someone as foolish or inexperienced
Your arm's got a death in it
Repeating the metaphorical element of mortality or decay
Single file
Repeating the idea of a prescribed order or arrangement
Single file
(Empty line)
Single file
-Single file
Repeating the idea of a prescribed order or arrangement
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