Meaning of "Postcard" by First Aid Kit

"Postcard" explores the aftermath of a romantic relationship that has ended. The song reflects the longing and nostalgia that the singer feels, as they ask the person they used to be with to keep them informed about their life after the breakup. The opening lines, "Honey, now that your shackles are gone, and you're out there on your own, won't you let me know if things get hard," highlight the freedom the other person now has, but also express concern for their well-being. The idea of being shackled suggests that the relationship may have felt stifling or constraining, and now that it's over, the person can experience a sense of liberation.

The chorus, "Send me a postcard when you get to where you're going, send me a line to everything you've left behind," emphasizes the desire for some form of communication or connection. The postcard symbolizes the physical distance between the two individuals and the longing for a glimpse into the other person's life. It also represents the need for closure and the hope that the other person will remember and acknowledge the shared experiences and memories.

The lyrics also hint at the complexities and challenges of the past relationship. The line "We were looking to mend it, but we tore it apart" suggests that although both parties may have tried to reconcile, they ultimately failed and caused more damage in the process. The mention of breaking one's own heart alludes to the pain and self-inflicted wounds that can occur during a breakup.

The song does not place blame on either party but rather captures the bittersweet emotions that follow the end of a relationship. The longing for connection, even after parting ways, demonstrates the depth of the singer's feelings. It acknowledges that despite the difficulties and pain, the connection they once had was meaningful and still holds significance.