Meaning of "Back Pocket" by Vulfpeck

"Back Pocket" explores the theme of delayed emotional expression and the consequences it can have on relationships. The lyrics use the metaphor of putting something in a pocket as a representation of keeping feelings hidden or suppressed. The song opens with the admission that it has taken the narrator a long time to express their feelings to someone, as they describe themselves as slow. This could suggest a fear of vulnerability or a hesitance to take risks in opening up emotionally.

The reference to passing notes in school adds depth to the meaning of the song. The lyrics ask, "Do you like me? Circle yes or no. On this piece of paper, 'Cause I really really need to know." This childhood memory serves as a reminder of how simple and direct communication used to be. Asking someone to "circle yes or no" is straightforward and leaves no room for misinterpretation. In contrast, the narrator struggles with expressing their feelings in the present, indicating a lack of confidence or uncertainty in their ability to communicate effectively.

The line "When you kissed me on the playground, I lost my breath, I had to lay down" recalls a significant moment of vulnerability and intimacy. The narrator is deeply affected by this experience but struggles to articulate their feelings, stating "But it's hard for me to read, out loud." This suggests a fear of rejection or a difficulty in expressing emotions verbally.

The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the desire to "put it in my pocket" and read it when alone. This suggests a desire for privacy and a need to process emotions internally before sharing them with others. It also reflects the narrator's tendency to keep emotions hidden, possibly due to past experiences of rejection or fear of vulnerability.

Overall, "Back Pocket" highlights the challenges of expressing emotions and the importance of timely communication in relationships. It explores themes of vulnerability, hesitation, and the effects of delayed emotional expression. The lyrics capture the complexities of human emotions and the longing for connection.