Meaning of "Baby" by Devendra Banhart

In "Baby," Devendra Banhart sings about the euphoria and excitement of being in love. The song is filled with lightheartedness and portrays a sense of childlike wonder. The opening lines, "Baby, I finally know what I'm going after, I'm learning to let in all the laughter," suggest a sense of self-discovery and the realization of what truly matters. The narrator has found someone who brings immense joy into their life and allows them to experience happiness on a deeper level.

The lyrics also highlight the unpredictability and beauty of love. The line "Look out for dreams that keep returning, 'Cause magic ain't no hand-me-down yearning" suggests that love cannot be forced or inherited; it is something that is discovered and experienced on one's own. Love is portrayed as a powerful force that can transcend time and bring a new perspective to life. The line "Traveling by choo-choo train, We know where we just don't know when" alludes to the idea that love is a journey, and even though the destination may be unknown, the experience is worth it.

The song further explores the idea of embracing the unexpected and finding joy in the little things. The playful imagery of a "bow tied Kangaroo" and playing it "goofy or cool" represents the freedom and flexibility love brings. The narrator emphasizes that the past doesn't hold much significance because the future is filled with endless possibilities. The line "Everything that happened, You know it don't mean a thing to us" suggests a disregard for the past because the present moment with the loved one is so fulfilling.

Overall, "Baby" celebrates love's ability to bring laughter, joy, and a sense of adventure into the narrator's life. It emphasizes the importance of experiencing love in the moment, rather than worrying about where it may lead. The song captures the euphoria and playfulness of being in love, urging listeners to embrace the magic and happiness it brings.