Meaning of "Monday Morning" by Death Cab For Cutie

The lyrics of "Monday Morning" delve into the complexities of the human experience, particularly through the lens of the young woman described in the song. The line "She may be young but she only likes old things" suggests that the protagonist has an old soul, appreciating the past and feeling disconnected from the present. Similarly, her love for natural light and black-and-white photography reveals her fondness for simplicity and beauty in its purest form.

The mention of mirages and their fleeting nature signifies the protagonist's struggle to fully grasp or explain her own emotions and experiences. The constantly changing mountain ranges and open plains may represent the highs and lows of her life, with moments of clarity followed by confusion. This could also symbolize the unpredictable nature of the world and the challenges one faces in understanding oneself and the external environment.

The chorus, with the plea "Love keep your arms around me," highlights the protagonist's need for emotional support and stability. The comparison of herself to a bird that is built to fly away but doesn't know how to stay reflects her restless nature and inability to form lasting connections. This feeling of being ungrounded is a common theme in the song, suggesting a longing for security and belonging.

The mention of vultures and the idea of looking in the mirror and being astounded by what one sees alludes to the passing of time and its effect on self-perception. The idea that lines and greys refine and become maps of our design suggests that experiences and aging contribute to personal growth and understanding. It implies that the challenges faced on a Monday morning, the start of a new week, shape who we are and set the course for our lives.

Overall, "Monday Morning" explores themes of nostalgia, love, self-discovery, and the passage of time. It delves into the internal conflicts and longings of the young woman described in the song, painting a picture of a complex individual navigating through life's uncertainties.