Meaning of "Down With The Shine" by The Avett Brothers

The lyrics of "Down With The Shine" delve into a deep contemplation of the fleeting nature of life and the emptiness of material wealth. The repeated plea to be done with the superficial shine suggests a disillusionment with the pursuit of possessions and status symbols that ultimately do more harm than good. The contrast between the old and the new, warmth and coldness, symbolizes the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The reference to a belly full of high-dollar wine and a fat wallet hints at the emptiness and temporary satisfaction that material wealth can bring, urging the listener to recognize the transience of such possessions. The mention of the search for a fountain of youth in Spain and the realization that nothing lasts emphasizes the futility of trying to hold onto things that are destined to pass. In the end, the song seems to convey a message of acceptance of life's impermanence and a call to focus on what truly matters beyond the shine of superficiality.