Meaning of "Déjà Vu" by Bear Hands

"Déjà Vu" by Bear Hands delves into the cyclical nature of life and the feeling of being stuck in a loop, unable to break free from familiar patterns. The lyrics depict a sense of detachment and numbness as the singer engages in destructive behaviors and fails to connect with those around him. The repetition of the phrase "déjà vu" serves as a reminder of how history tends to repeat itself, with the same mistakes being made over and over again. The reference to not being able to remember past actions reinforces a theme of recklessness and an inability to learn from past experiences. Overall, the song conveys a sense of resignation and a lack of agency, as the singer finds themselves trapped in a cycle of self-destructive behavior and emotional numbness.