Meaning of "Cath..." by Death Cab For Cutie

"Cath..." paints a complex picture of a woman named Cath and her struggle to find love and fulfillment. The lyrics suggest that Cath is in a relationship with a well-intentioned man who perhaps means well but is also suffocating her. The imagery of his hand on the small of her back and the mention of her inability to relax around him conveys a sense of discomfort and unease. It seems that Cath is putting on a façade for others, holding a smile like someone would hold a crying child, indicating her desperation to maintain appearances.

The song's chorus marks a turning point in Cath's story. It is implied that her heart is dying fast, but she doesn't know what to do about it. This suggests that Cath may feel trapped, lacking the agency to change her situation or break free from the constraints of the relationship. The use of the phrase "what became of you" implies that there may have once been more to Cath, further reinforcing the idea that she is living someone else's dream and suppressing her own desires.

The lyrics then discuss Cath settling for a less fulfilling life, highlighted by the imagery of a hand-me-down wedding dress. This symbolizes Cath's choice to conform and accept something that lacks personal significance or meaning. She closes the door on potential loves, perhaps out of a perceived obligation or fear of the unknown. This decision is juxtaposed against the line "Who would have loved you more," suggesting that Cath may have sacrificed a deeper connection and passion for the sake of stability or societal expectations.

In the final verse, the lyrics address the whispers of others who doubt Cath's choices, implying that they wouldn't have acted differently if their hearts were similarly dying fast. This suggests that people often make compromises for various reasons, and judging Cath's decisions may be hypocritical. The line "And I'd have done the same as you" implies a sense of empathy or understanding, reflecting on the narrator's own potential to make similar choices if faced with similar circumstances.