Obstacle 1

Interpol's 'Obstacle 1' is a track that encapsulates the band's signature post-punk revival sound, characterized by its intricate guitar work and Paul Banks' baritone vocals. The song's lyrics are cryptic and open to interpretation, but they seem to revolve around themes of nostalgia, change, and the complexities of relationships. The opening lines suggest a longing to reconnect with the past ('I wish I could eat the salt off of your lost and faded lips'), indicating a desire to experience once again the intensity and authenticity of a previous relationship or time in life. The repetition of 'We can cap the old times' and 'Make playing only logical harm' might imply an attempt to revisit the past without the emotional pain that often accompanies such memories.

The chorus, with its repeated assertion that 'she can read, she's bad,' could be interpreted in several ways. It might suggest a woman who is perceptive and aware, perhaps to the point of being intimidating or destructive ('bad') in the context of the relationship. The song's narrative voice seems to be grappling with the impact of this person, who has the power to 'put the weights into my little heart,' symbolizing emotional burden or influence. The phrase 'stabbing yourself in the neck' could be a metaphor for self-destructive behavior or the pain of facing difficult truths.

As the song progresses, the lyrics touch on themes of aging and the realization that certain places and faces will never be seen again. This adds a layer of melancholy to the song, as it reflects on the inevitability of change and the passage of time. The repeated lines 'She packs it away' might signify the act of moving on or compartmentalizing emotions to cope with the changes life brings. Overall, 'Obstacle 1' is a complex and emotionally charged song that leaves much to the listener's interpretation, resonating with themes of loss, change, and the weight of past relationships.