The narrator intends to leave the house to meet someone important, but gets distracted by the plum tree in their yard. Despite trying to call the person, they are overwhelmed by the presence of the plum tree, which weighs heavily on their mind and heart.

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Meaning of "Quetzalcoatl Eats Plums" by The Mountain Goats


The lyrics of "Quetzalcoatl Eats Plums" evoke a sense of being stuck in a moment of contemplation and distraction. The plum tree serves as a strong symbol throughout the song, representing something that anchors the narrator in a state of introspection and emotional weight. The decision to leave the house and connect with someone else is overshadowed by the overwhelming presence of the tree, suggesting that there may be unresolved feelings or thoughts that hold the narrator back. The vivid imagery of the plum tree's leaves, red as fresh blood, adds to the intensity of emotions tied to this symbol. Overall, the song captures the complexity of human emotions, the internal struggles that can hinder our actions, and the power of nature to provoke introspection and reflection.