Meaning of "Backseat Driver" by Shakey Graves

The lyrics of "Backseat Driver" evoke a strong sense of longing and nostalgia for a past relationship. The references to being a backseat driver and a teacher's pet suggest a feeling of being led or controlled by another person, perhaps indicating a lack of agency or independence in the relationship. The image of being sick from half a cigarette could symbolize the detrimental effects of indulging in something superficial or destructive. The repeated refrain of "lost and gone forever" conveys a deep sense of regret and finality, emphasizing the irreversibility of time and the impossibility of recapturing the past. Overall, the lyrics convey a poignant reflection on lost opportunities, regret, and the bittersweet nature of memory and time.