Meaning of "Letterbox" by They Might Be Giants

The song "Letterbox" by They Might Be Giants portrays a sense of longing and frustration at the inability to truly know and understand someone. The mailbox serves as a metaphor for the person's life and secrets, and the narrator yearns to uncover what lies within. However, no matter how close the narrator may feel to this person, they will never truly know what they are thinking or feeling. The little bird symbolizes a confidante or a source of information, but even this friend cannot provide the desired knowledge. This highlights the limitations of human connection and understanding.

The mention of having eyes in the back of the narrator's head speaks to their desire for a different perspective. They wish to see and understand all the things this person leaves unsaid or forgets to discuss. By having eyes on the other side, the narrator would be able to fully comprehend and piece together the mystery of this person. This yearning for a different point of view suggests a feeling of being closed off or excluded from important aspects of this person's life.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of love and the lack of time for sorrow. The phrase "too late or soon to make noise about love" suggests the unpredictability and fleeting nature of romantic relationships. The narrator seems to suggest that it is futile to dwell on the past or worry about the future when it comes to matters of the heart. Instead, they encourage living in the present and seizing the opportunities that arise.

Overall, "Letterbox" delves into the complexities of human connection and the frustration of not fully understanding someone else. It explores the desire for information and a different perspective, while also acknowledging the transience of love and the importance of living in the moment.