Meaning of "What Does It Matter" by America

The lyrics of "What Does It Matter" delve into themes of nostalgia, missed opportunities, and reflections on past relationships. The protagonist is looking back on a photograph of a lady from the past, wondering why certain information was kept secret and why things didn't work out. The mention of satin shoes and gilded hair suggests a sense of glamour and luxury associated with the memory. The reference to the parking lot late at night and the missed chance of using paper straws hints at a missed opportunity or a lack of courage to pursue something meaningful. Ultimately, the song captures the bittersweet feeling of looking back on the past and recognizing that it's just a memory now, with a tinge of regret and longing for what could have been.