Meaning of "Past Lives" by Local Natives

The lyrics of "Past Lives" delve into the yearning for emotional rescue and the search for a sense of belonging. The opening lines, "Save me from the prime of my life, And I'll try to carry you home tonight," suggest a desire to be liberated from the pressures and expectations that come with being in the prime of one's life. The protagonist is seeking solace and assistance, hoping to find someone who can offer support and guidance through the challenges they face.

The mention of Annie over Kansas and laughing at endless skies evokes a sense of freedom and innocence. Annie represents a metaphorical figure of playfulness and joy, perhaps symbolizing the protagonist's longing to recapture the carefree nature of their past.

The lyrics also touch on the concept of reflecting on past experiences and emotions. The line, "Let your past lives through, then you wake up," suggests that by examining and acknowledging our pasts, we can awaken to a greater understanding of ourselves and the world around us. This introspection could potentially lead to personal growth and transformation.

The reference to Dorothy Chandler in the lyrics invites imagery of a concert hall filled with people. The desire to find oneself reflected a hundred times suggests a yearning for connection and a longing to be seen and understood by others. It highlights the universal human desire for validation and the need to feel a sense of belonging within a community.

The mention of spilling sugar and sprawling out on a California king could represent indulgence and comfort, perhaps hinting at the protagonist finding solace and refuge in material pleasures as a temporary escape from the complexities of life.

The repeated lines, "I will wait for you, At the end love, Let your past lives through, Then you wake up," emphasize patience and the idea that by embracing our past experiences, we can find healing and growth. The mention of catacombs and nothing could represent the journey through the depths of one's memories and the void that can exist within.

Overall, "Past Lives" explores themes of searching for connection, reflection on the past, and the longing for emotional rescue. The lyrics remind us of the significance of introspection and embracing our experiences and emotions to find meaning and fulfillment in our lives.