The lyrics of "Empty Hotel by the Sea" tell the story of a man named Matthew who seems to be running from some sort of trouble. The narrator is warning Matthew that trouble is following him, and the consequences of his actions will catch up to him eventually. The song describes a chaotic and tragic end for Matthew in an empty hotel by the sea.

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Meaning of "Empty Hotel by the Sea" by Conor Oberst


The lyrics of "Empty Hotel by the Sea" by Conor Oberst paint a bleak picture of a man named Matthew who seems to be evading some sort of danger or trouble. The narrator expresses frustration and betrayal towards Matthew, warning him that his actions have consequences that will eventually catch up to him. The mention of a presidential suite on the 37th floor and a rental car on fire paints a vivid picture of destruction and chaos. The repeated line "It's not true, Matthew" suggests that Matthew might be in denial about the severity of the situation he's in. The song suggests that no matter how hard Matthew tries to escape, he cannot outrun his fate. The final image of Matthew in an empty hotel by the sea, with fingers broken and teeth being picked up, evokes a sense of tragedy and finality. The song seems to be a cautionary tale about the repercussions of one's actions and the inevitability of facing the consequences.