Meaning of "Port Of Morrow" by The Shins

The lyrics of "Port of Morrow" by The Shins delve into themes of mortality, the significance of mundane existence, and finding beauty amidst chaos. The opening lines depict a pigeon being chased by a predator, symbolizing the constant threat of death and the fragility of life. The narrator, feeling a connection to the fear of the pigeon, reflects on the bitter mechanics of life that drive both humans and animals. The mention of "The lines are all imagined" suggests a recognition that our perception of life's events and our place in it is subjective. This notion is reinforced by the mention of the hat, a metaphorical barrier between the harsh realities of life and the narrator's young daughters who are shielded from it.

The narrative then shifts to a scene of a preacher delivering insincere messages, referred to as "phony sorrow." This is a critique of those who use religious platforms for personal gain or to manipulate emotions. The reference to cyanide of an almond and getting the angles right highlights the preacher's deceptive tactics. The mention of the Ace of spades and the port of morrow underscores the cyclical nature of life, where death is intertwined with existence.

The lyrics also make a reference to historical events, specifically the city of Cologne in 1927 and the aftermath of bombings in 1945. The speaker suggests that the world allowed evil to prevail during these times, possibly alluding to the rise of fascism and the atrocities committed during World War II. By acknowledging that the listener was present during these events, the lyrics imply a shared responsibility and a recognition of the collective human experience.

The final lines of the song introduce a juxtaposition between flowers and garbage, symbolizing the existence of beauty amidst ugliness. The mention of a skull under one's curls hints at a hidden mortality beneath the surface of life. Overall, "Port of Morrow" explores existential themes, the impermanence of life, and the search for meaning in an unpredictable world.