Meaning of "I Used to Write in Notebooks" by Rhett Miller

"I Used to Write in Notebooks" reflects on the nostalgia for bygone eras and the inevitable changes that come with time. The speaker reflects on how in the past, they used to engage in simple, tangible activities like writing in notebooks and reading maps, which have been largely replaced by digital alternatives in today's world. This shift is symbolic of the broader changes in society and technology, highlighting feelings of loss and disconnection. The lyrics also touch on the fear of mortality and the passage of time, with the speaker expressing a sense of unease about their own mortality. The references to having pictures on the phone, worries about death, and dreams symbolize a deeper reflection on life's transience and the complexities of human emotions. Overall, the song captures a sense of longing for the past, contemplation of mortality, and the impact of changing times on personal identity.