Meaning of "So Now What" by The Shins

The lyrics of "So Now What" delve into the theme of new beginnings and the acceptance of change. The song begins with the narrator having a wild idea that they would effortlessly navigate through life and reach their desired destination. However, they acknowledge that change is constant and lies in every direction. Despite this realization, they express their readiness to start over. The mention of meeting in the cold and the reminiscing about the past highlights the passage of time and the disconnect that may have occurred due to life's changes. The narrator asks if their best friend still views them as strong even if they admit to being wrong, emphasizing the vulnerability and strength in a genuine connection. The repetition of "so now what" throughout the song reflects the uncertainty and open-endedness of life. It poses the question of what comes next and how to navigate through the unpredictability. The lyrics convey a sense of hope and resilience in embracing change while recognizing the importance of deep bonds and friendship.