Campus

Vampire Weekend's song 'Campus' captures the bittersweet essence of a fleeting college romance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man navigating the emotional landscape of a university, where every corner and corridor is imbued with memories of a past love. The song begins with the protagonist waking up and going through the motions of his day, a sense of coldness and detachment evident in his actions. This physical coldness mirrors his emotional state, as he drags his feet and pulls on his shirt, symbolizing the weight of his unresolved feelings.

The recurring imagery of seeing the former lover 'walking cross the campus' and the mention of a 'cruel professor studying romances' adds layers of complexity to the narrative. The professor could be a metaphor for the harsh lessons learned in love, or perhaps a literal figure who reminds the protagonist of his romantic failures. The repeated question, 'How am I supposed to pretend I never want to see you again?' underscores the internal conflict and the difficulty of moving on from someone who was once a significant part of his life.

The song also touches on the mundane yet poignant moments that define young love, such as spilling kefir on a keffiyah and the casual encounters that still hold emotional weight. The afternoon scene, where the former lover is out on the stone and grass while the protagonist sleeps on the balcony after class, encapsulates the distance and separation that now exists between them. This juxtaposition of proximity and emotional distance highlights the lingering presence of the past in the protagonist's present life, making 'Campus' a relatable and evocative exploration of young love and heartache.