Meaning of "Your Fine Petting Duck" by Devendra Banhart

The lyrics of "Your Fine Petting Duck" delve into the speaker's conflicting emotions and their desire to rekindle a past love. The speaker addresses their former partner and admits that they never truly loved their current partner. This admission highlights their regret for not valuing the relationship when they had it and suggests that they now see the current partner as a poor substitute. The speaker then goes on to compare themselves to the current partner, pointing out their own shortcomings and flaws. They acknowledge that they never tried their best or gave enough time and attention to the relationship. This may indicate a desire to change or grow, recognizing their past mistakes.

The repetition of the phrase "Come back, baby, I never really loved him" reinforces the speaker's longing for their former partner and their willingness to take them back. However, it also highlights their insecurity and fear of being rejected. The lyrics suggest that the speaker's love for their former partner was genuine and that they now realize their mistake in letting them go. They ask for forgiveness and a second chance.

The cryptic phrase at the end of the lyrics, "Als eine Flamme reist du, Du durch das essentialisierte Universum, Inzwischen trinken wir unser Glas des Himmels Abstinenz, Eines Tages könnten wir unser Löcher wieder stopfen," adds an element of mysticism and reflection on the passage of time. It can be interpreted as a metaphor for the journey of the soul or the transient nature of relationships. The idea that holes can be mended suggests the possibility of healing and reconciliation in the future.

Overall, "Your Fine Petting Duck" portrays a complex mix of regret, longing, and willingness to change. The lyrics showcase the emotional journey of the speaker as they reflect on their past mistakes and express a desire to make amends.