The lyrics express regret for not listening to someone's words and realizing the significance of their actions too late, resulting in feelings of loneliness and self-blame. The singer acknowledges that every little thing they do will contribute to tearing themselves apart.

Meaning of "ELT" by Wilco

The lyrics of "ELT" by Wilco delve into themes of regret, missed opportunities, and self-blame. The singer reflects on not heeding the advice or words of someone important, leading to a sense of isolation and feeling out of place. The repetition of "every little thing" emphasizes the idea that even small actions or decisions can have significant consequences, especially when neglecting the feelings of others. The line "Every little thing that you do / Seems so much better than I could do" highlights feelings of inadequacy and comparison, further contributing to the sense of self-destructiveness. Overall, the song captures the internal struggle of recognizing one's mistakes too late and grappling with the repercussions.