Meaning of "Slow Talkers" by Kurt Vile

The meaning behind the lyrics of "Slow Talkers" revolves around the frustration and alienation the speaker feels when they are forced to interact with individuals who speak too slowly. The repetition of the phrase "Everyone I know talks to me way too slow" emphasizes the extent of this annoyance and suggests that it's a recurring issue in the speaker's life. This frustration ultimately leads the speaker to lose track of what is being said before the slow talker walks away, indicating a lack of meaningful communication and connection.

The speaker asserts their boundaries by stating, "I told you once before, Ain't gonna say no more." This indicates a refusal to continue engaging in one-sided conversations that leave the speaker feeling unheard and unacknowledged. The threat of choosing muteness in the face of slow speakers signifies a desire for more authentic and engaging interactions. It suggests that the speaker values meaningful communication and is unwilling to waste their time on conversations that do not fulfill that need.

The lyrics also delve into the speaker's inner thoughts and emotions. The line "You're on my mind most times when fear does not overflow" implies that the slow talkers occupy the speaker's thoughts when they are not consumed by fear. This suggests that the annoyance caused by slow talkers becomes a prominent issue, overshadowing other concerns. The mention of the "cranial cup runneth over" and the pouring forth of despised things reflects the overwhelming nature of these recurring negative thoughts and emotions. It implies that the speaker is constantly grappling with a flood of undesirable thoughts, making it challenging to find peace of mind.

Overall, "Slow Talkers" conveys a sense of frustration, isolation, and the longing for more meaningful connections. The lyrics bring attention to the speaker's desire for authentic communication as well as their struggle with negative thoughts and emotions.