Souvenir

Boygenius' song 'Souvenir' delves into the haunting and introspective journey of dealing with personal demons and the search for meaning in the midst of turmoil. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their inner struggles, symbolized by the dreamcatcher in the rearview mirror that 'hasn’t caught a thing yet.' This imagery suggests a sense of futility in trying to ward off bad dreams or negative thoughts, highlighting the ongoing battle within the mind.

The mention of spending 'twenty dollars on a souvenir' reflects a desperate attempt to find solace or distraction, even if it’s through something as trivial as a keepsake. This act of clinging to small tokens of hope underscores the human desire to find comfort in the face of adversity. The recurring nightmares and the feeling of always ending up dying in dreams further emphasize the protagonist's struggle with their subconscious fears and anxieties.

The lyrics also explore themes of proximity to death and illness, with references to living near cemeteries and hospitals. This proximity could symbolize a constant reminder of mortality and the fragility of life. The vivid imagery of 'pulling thorns out of my palm' and 'midnight surgery' suggests a painful and ongoing process of self-examination and healing. The line 'When you cut a hole into my skull, do you hate what you see like I do?' poignantly captures the self-loathing and fear of being truly seen and understood by others. Through these raw and evocative lyrics, Boygenius invites listeners to reflect on their own struggles and the ways they seek to navigate their inner turmoil.