Meaning of "Cherry Hearts" by The Shins

"Cherry Hearts" by The Shins portrays the complexity of unrequited love and longing. The singer grapples with their feelings for someone who seems elusive and indifferent, symbolized by the repeated line "You kissed me once when we were drunk." This nostalgic recollection of a fleeting moment of intimacy contrasts sharply with the stark reality of their unbalanced relationship. The references to biting cherry hearts and stowing diamonds away suggest a sense of self-protection and vulnerability, as well as longing for something unattainable. The repeated imagery of spinning, falling, and being left with nothing conveys a sense of disorientation and emotional turmoil. Overall, the song captures the pain of yearning for someone who cannot, or will not, reciprocate those feelings, leading to a cycle of temporary highs and inevitable disappointments.