Swap Meet

Nirvana's 'Swap Meet' paints a vivid picture of a couple's life that revolves around the simplicity and struggles of making ends meet through selling handmade crafts. The song's lyrics, penned by frontman Kurt Cobain, often explore themes of disenchantment and the grittier aspects of life, and 'Swap Meet' is no exception. The couple described in the song lives a 'comfortable' lifestyle, which seems to be modest and unpretentious, as they travel and sell their arts and crafts, items made from natural and found materials like seashells, driftwood, and burlap. This depiction resonates with the DIY ethic and the alternative culture of the late 80s and early 90s that Nirvana was a part of.

The 'Sunday swap meet' mentioned in the song is symbolic of the couple's relationship, described as a 'battleground.' This metaphor suggests that their interactions, possibly their negotiations with customers or between themselves, are fraught with tension and unspoken emotions. The repeated lines about what each partner keeps 'close to the heart' reveal a deeper layer of their relationship. The man's cigarettes and the woman's photographs may represent their personal vices or comforts, while the 'bitterness' they both hold onto suggests unresolved issues or the hardships of their lifestyle.

Overall, 'Swap Meet' can be seen as a commentary on the complexities of love and the sacrifices made in relationships, especially within the context of a countercultural lifestyle. The song reflects the emotional distance that can exist between partners, despite their shared experiences and the facade of a united front. Nirvana's music often delved into the raw and real aspects of human experience, and 'Swap Meet' is a testament to their ability to articulate the nuances of personal connections against the backdrop of a nonconformist life.