Meaning of "I Was Once A Loyal Lover" by Death Cab For Cutie

The lyrics of "I Was Once A Loyal Lover" delve into the internal conflict of the narrator who finds themselves stuck in a cycle of failed relationships and self-realization. They admit to being stubborn and set in their ways, unable to adapt to the changes around them, leading to strained connections with friends and lovers. The repetition of "I told you so" hints at a sense of regret and a realization of their own faults, but the bridges burned behind them signify the irreversible damage done. It's a poignant reflection on self-awareness, regret, and the inability to change one's ways even as relationships crumble. The line "There's plenty of hills to climb" indicates a sense of hope for the future, but the weight of past mistakes still lingers.