Meaning of "In A Drawer" by Band Of Horses

The lyrics of "In A Drawer" by Band of Horses explore themes of nostalgia, lost love, and the struggle to move on. The song begins with the narrator sitting on a bearskin rug while listening to their grandpa talk, creating a nostalgic and sentimental atmosphere. They mention the whistle of an odd bird call and a photo of a long-lost dog, emphasizing the passage of time and the fleeting nature of memories. The repeated lyric "Do you love me?" suggests the narrator's uncertainty about the current state of their relationship. They express a desire to live differently, possibly yearning for a more passionate or unconventional life in a warehouse district.

The narrator reflects on a lesson learned, acknowledging that it's easy to pass off blame to others rather than taking responsibility. However, they express a longing to be with their partner, asking if they can accompany them to the laundromat. This mundane request contrasts with the deeper longing for connection and stability.

The central motif of the song is the discovery of something in a drawer, representing a meaningful artifact from the past. This discovery has taken time but has finally been found. The drawer symbolizes the hidden aspects of their relationship or memories that have been locked away until now. The narrator realizes they cannot continue living in the same way, but they will persist and go on, suggesting a determination to find resolution or closure.

The lyric "I found it in a drawer" is repeated several times, emphasizing the significance and impact of this discovery. It is a turning point that forces the narrator to confront their feelings and memories. They acknowledge that they left something behind a long time ago, hidden away, and now they have the opportunity to confront it. The repeated question "Do you love me?" further highlights the uncertainty and longing for reassurance in their relationship.

Overall, "In A Drawer" delves into the complexities of love, memory, and the struggle to reconcile the past with the present. It speaks to the universal experience of longing for connection and the difficulty of moving on from the past.