The lyrics of "Penpals" tell the story of two pen pals, one from Algeria and the other a 13-year-old Norwegian boy. The Algerian pen pal, named Amal, describes herself as strange and sends a photo requesting a piece of hair as a souvenir. The Norwegian boy expresses his admiration for his pen pal, hoping their correspondence will never end.

Meaning of "Penpals" by Sloan

"Penpals" explores themes of communication, connection, and the longing for friendship across borders. The lyrics highlight the innocence and curiosity of youth, as the characters reach out to each other through letters, sharing personal details and requesting tokens of affection. Despite being from different backgrounds, the pen pals find a sense of camaraderie and admiration in their exchanges. The song captures the excitement and vulnerability of forming relationships with strangers, emphasizing the universal desire for companionship and understanding. Through the lens of pen pals communicating from afar, the lyrics emphasize the power of human connection to bridge gaps in experience, culture, and geography.