Depreston

Courtney Barnett's song 'Depreston' captures the bittersweet experience of house hunting in the suburbs, blending mundane details with poignant reflections on life and death. The song begins with the narrator and their partner deciding to look beyond their familiar urban environment, characterized by coffee shops, to explore the suburban area of Preston. The initial excitement of finding a more affordable living space is quickly overshadowed by the stark reality of the neighborhood, as they witness a police arrest upon arrival. This sets a somber tone, hinting at the underlying issues of the area.

As they tour a Californian bungalow, the narrator's observations shift from practical considerations to more sentimental ones. The house, described as having a lovely garden and ample storage space, is revealed to be a deceased estate. This revelation brings a sense of melancholy, as the narrator notices personal touches left behind by the previous owner, such as a handrail in the shower and a collection of canisters for coffee, tea, and flour. The discovery of a photo of a young man in Vietnam further deepens the emotional impact, prompting the narrator to reflect on the life that once filled the home.

The song's title, 'Depreston,' cleverly combines 'depressing' and 'Preston,' encapsulating the mixed feelings of hope and sadness that come with the search for a new home. Barnett's storytelling is both vivid and introspective, highlighting the contrast between the practical aspects of house hunting and the emotional weight of the histories embedded in these spaces. The song ultimately questions the value of material possessions and the true cost of starting anew, leaving listeners to ponder the deeper implications of their own suburban dreams.