Meaning of "Dice Behind Your Shades" by Paul Westerberg

"Dice Behind Your Shades" delves into the idea of staying authentic and true to oneself despite external influences trying to shape our identity. The repeated refrain of rolling the dice behind your shades suggests taking risks and making choices behind a mask or shield, protecting one's true self from judgment and criticism. The lyrics touch on the feeling of disconnect with mainstream culture, depicted through references to avant-garde, Carson McCullers, and being twice your age. These references symbolize the idea of feeling out of place or ahead of one's time, embracing individuality rather than conforming to societal norms. The song also explores the fear of vulnerability and the transient nature of love, highlighting the importance of staying true to oneself even in the face of uncertainty and change. Overall, "Dice Behind Your Shades" conveys a message of self-acceptance, defiance against conformity, and the importance of embracing one's uniqueness.