Rehash

Kurt Cobain's song 'Rehash' delves into the repetitive and often frustrating nature of pursuing a career in music. The lyrics open with a personal anecdote about trying out for a high school band and the disappointment of not achieving commercial success. Cobain's mention of keeping his unsold records in his cellar symbolizes the hidden and unappreciated efforts of many artists. This sets the stage for the recurring theme of 'rehash,' which suggests a cycle of repeating the same efforts without significant progress or change.

The chorus, dominated by the word 'rehash,' emphasizes the monotony and redundancy that can plague creative endeavors. The repetition of 'rehash' serves as a metaphor for the artist's struggle to break free from a cycle of unfulfilled potential and constant reinvention without recognition. This repetition also mirrors the repetitive nature of the music industry, where artists often feel pressured to recreate their past successes rather than innovate.

In the verses, Cobain contrasts this with the experience of playing in a bar band. While it may seem like a modest achievement, he expresses gratitude for not being 'bland,' suggesting that maintaining artistic integrity and uniqueness is a victory in itself. The juxtaposition of 'rehash' with 'playing in a bar band' highlights the tension between commercial success and artistic fulfillment. The final lines, which introduce 'smoke hash,' add a layer of escapism, hinting at the coping mechanisms artists might resort to in dealing with their frustrations.

Cobain's raw and repetitive lyrics in 'Rehash' capture the essence of the artist's struggle, the cyclical nature of creative pursuits, and the quest for authenticity in a commercialized world.