Meaning of "I Remember" by Bully

The lyrics of "I Remember" delve into the depths of personal memories and relationships. The repetition of "I remember" throughout the song signifies the lasting impact of these memories on the speaker. The mention of old habits and getting "too fucked up" reflects on a period of self-destructive behavior, possibly related to substance abuse. The act of throwing up in someone else's car suggests a lack of control and care for the consequences of their actions.

The narrative shifts to focus on hurting someone the speaker cares about deeply. The acknowledgement of causing pain and the memory of the way the person's sheets smelled shows a sense of remorse and a desire to hold on to the intimacy shared between them. The mention of knowing what makes the person cry and when they genuinely mean something emphasizes the speaker's claim to understand the other person better than anyone else. Although the lyrics don't explicitly mention the state of their current relationship, the mention of "things getting better" suggests that there may have been growth and improvement in their bond.

The song also touches on elements of nostalgia and familiarity. The box of letters and naked photo mentioned evoke a sense of sentimentality and a longing for a past connection. The mention of meeting the other person's dad and knowing about their mom reflects an effort to delve deeper into their partner's life and family background, seeking a more profound understanding of who they are.

The conclusion of the song's lyrics highlights the speaker's comprehensive knowledge of what both frightens and angers the other person. This line not only suggests a deep level of familiarity but also hints at an underlying compassion and empathy, as the speaker implies that they can soothe and comfort the other person despite these triggers.

Overall, "I Remember" explores the impact of memories, personal growth, and the complexity of relationships. It delves into moments of vulnerability, self-destructive behavior, remorse, and deep understanding between two individuals.