Spit On A Stranger

Pavement's 'Spit On A Stranger' delves into the complexities of relationships, capturing the oscillation between intimacy and alienation. The lyrics reflect a sense of ambivalence and emotional turbulence, where the narrator grapples with the duality of closeness and distance. The repeated lines 'However you feel, Whatever it takes' suggest a willingness to adapt and endure, yet there's an underlying tension that surfaces through the metaphor of spitting on a stranger. This act symbolizes a mix of contempt and detachment, highlighting the bitter aspects of the relationship.

The song's narrative unfolds with the narrator reflecting on past conversations and interactions, describing them as coming from 'a bitter stranger.' This phrase encapsulates the paradox of feeling deeply connected to someone who simultaneously feels distant and unfamiliar. The lyrics 'Honey I'm a prize and you're a catch, And we're a perfect match, Like two bitter strangers' further emphasize this contradiction. The relationship is portrayed as both ideal and flawed, a perfect match marred by underlying bitterness.

Musically, Pavement's signature lo-fi, indie rock sound complements the lyrical themes, creating an atmosphere that is both raw and introspective. The refrain 'Pour me out' suggests a desire for release or escape from the emotional turmoil. The closing lines, 'I see the sunshine in your eyes, I'll try the things you'll never try, I'll be the one that leaves you high,' hint at a glimmer of hope and resilience, despite the prevailing sense of estrangement. Ultimately, 'Spit On A Stranger' captures the intricate dance of love, where moments of connection are interspersed with feelings of alienation and bitterness.