Meaning of "Some Boys" by Death Cab For Cutie

The lyrics of "Some Boys" delve into the various ways in which different boys navigate their lives, particularly in terms of relationships and emotions. The song presents two distinct groups of boys: those who fill the void in their lives through pursuits such as career success and material gain, and those who engage in casual relationships without seeking deeper connections. The first group is characterized by their relentless ambition, focusing solely on their own advancement and achieving success at the expense of others. They are depicted as disconnected from their own emotions and those of others, lacking the ability to feel and express love. They operate within the hierarchical nature of society, striving to be at the top of their respective fields. The second group of boys, however, seeks immediate gratification in the form of casual encounters with girls, engaging in meaningless flings and then leaving them once they are satisfied. They are portrayed as lonely and isolated, incapable of forming lasting connections with others. Both groups suffer from a lack of understanding or experience with love, as indicated by the repeated refrain "Some boys don't know how to love." The song suggests that these boys are unable to fulfill their desires and achieve true happiness, ultimately failing to obtain what they truly want in life.