Meaning of "Traces" by Built To Spill

The lyrics of "Traces" delve into the complexities of individual identity and the constant flux of existence. The speaker reflects on the challenges of maintaining a sense of self in a world that is ever-changing, where boundaries blur and all traces eventually disintegrate. The protagonist seems to struggle with the overwhelming nature of their thoughts, riding a train of introspection that they find difficult to escape from. The realization of how few things are truly worth knowing leads to a sense of resignation, as the speaker contemplates the transient nature of life and the inevitability of unexpected events like train crashes. Ultimately, the song speaks to the human experience of grappling with impermanence and the quest for meaning in the face of uncertainty. The lyrics poignantly capture the poignancy of trying to hold onto one's identity as everything around them shifts and fades away.