Meaning of "I Should See Memphis" by Fleet Foxes

The lyrics of "I Should See Memphis" by Fleet Foxes convey a sense of yearning for escape and freedom. The opening lines, "Endless vacation / Felt like perdition," suggest a feeling of being trapped in a monotonous routine that offers no real respite or fulfillment. The mention of a "Sybarite woman / Stood at attention" could mean someone who stands out, perhaps representing an embodiment of the narrator's desires or aspirations.

The references to Cassius in Rome, Kinshasa, First Manassas, and Appomattox evoke a sense of historical significance, rebellion, and conflict. These allusions could signify the narrator's longing for an opportunity to confront someone or something that has held them back or oppressed them.

The lyrics continue with the lines, "But I gave you no option / Illusion of choosing / And if you wouldn't stop them / Then you just hate losing." This suggests a power dynamic where the narrator has control over the situation but is also aware of the illusion of choice they provide. It implies that the person they want to confront may have had a chance to stop the situation but chose not to, perhaps due to a fear of losing control or power.

The mention of missing the highway and the longing to see Memphis represent a desire for adventure and exploration. The highway symbolizes a path to new experiences and possibilities, while Memphis represents a destination that holds meaning or significance to the narrator. The inclusion of Osiris implies that there is someone who shares the narrator's perspective and understands their longing for escape.

Overall, the lyrics of "I Should See Memphis" convey a sense of frustration with a mundane existence, a desire for confrontation or liberation, and a longing for freedom and adventure.