Care

Dance Gavin Dance's song 'Care' delves into the complex emotions of nostalgia, regret, and unresolved feelings. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a past relationship, filled with moments of youthful exuberance and carefree experiences. The opening lines, 'For now we’ll lay by the ocean / For now no one is around,' evoke a sense of temporary escape and intimacy, suggesting a time when the world felt simpler and more connected. This sets the stage for a journey through memories and the lingering impact of a significant other who still holds a place in the narrator's heart.

The repeated refrain, 'I know you’re not empty / I know you’re still there / You still care,' underscores the persistent belief that the other person still harbors feelings, despite the passage of time and the changes that have occurred. This sentiment is further emphasized by the nostalgic references to a 'Prodigy show 2003' and 'camping out in Jnco jeans,' which highlight specific, shared experiences that are etched into the narrator's memory. These lines capture the essence of a time when life was filled with excitement and adventure, contrasting sharply with the present sense of loss and longing.

As the song progresses, the tone shifts to one of frustration and obsession. The lines 'God damn / You caught me looking back / God damn / With no discretion' reveal the narrator's struggle with being unable to move on, feeling trapped by the past and the emotional hold the other person still has over them. The mention of 'parasites' and 'vacant threats' suggests a toxic element to the relationship, where negative emotions and unresolved issues continue to fester. Ultimately, 'Care' is a poignant exploration of the enduring impact of past relationships, the pain of unreciprocated feelings, and the difficulty of letting go.