Meaning of "I'll Rust With You" by Steam Powered Giraffe

At its core, "I'll Rust With You" is a song about the passage of time and the nostalgia that comes with it. The lyrics paint a picture of a world that has lost its vibrancy, where once-thriving places like the malt shop, disco, and raves have become dilapidated or extinct. The protagonist finds comfort in the company of the girl with the golden hair, who represents a bygone era of glamour and excitement.

The theme of rust serves as a metaphor for the decay and fading away of memories, experiences, and the passing of time itself. Rust is typically viewed as a negative thing, symbolizing the corrosion and erosion of objects. However, in this song, it takes on a positive connotation. Embracing the rust is a way of accepting the inevitable passage of time and cherishing the memories and experiences that have shaped us.

The protagonist's desire to "rust with you" and "rust with every one of you" suggests a sense of camaraderie in embracing the fading beauty of the past. It's a shared experience, as everyone eventually faces the effects of time and nostalgia. The song captures a bittersweet feeling of longing for something that is lost while also accepting the inevitability of change.

The imagery in the lyrics further supports the theme of nostalgia and decay. The girl with the golden hair represents a bygone era of glamour and excitement, while the broken dreams, burnt records, and faded memories signify the passing of time and the loss of once-cherished experiences. The Cadillac, malt shop, disco, and other elements evoke a sense of retro nostalgia, reinforcing the idea of longing for the past.

Ultimately, "I'll Rust With You" is a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of time and the beauty in embracing the memories and experiences that have shaped us, even as they deteriorate and fade away.