It takes a lot to really disappear
Always leave traces in the leaves
Never thought I’d see her here
Never thought I’d see her again[Verse 2]
She sidewinders through the room to me
With a real cigarette and a Styrofoam coffee
She’s still wearing her father’s feather jacket
She holds out her hands and I stand to receive her
Trying to remember the last time I’d seen her
Somehow she looks younger now
[Chorus]
She finishes off my drink and
Puts on her bonnet of pins and
Says I
Thought I’d find you much quicker than this, you
Must’ve thought I didn’t exist, poor you
I do
We’d better go before your boyfriends cry
[Verse 3]
She says she takes photos of tractor bones
And sells ’em to model luxury homes
The closest thing she’s ever found to love
Is the kind you can’t get rid of fast enough
She finishes off my drink and
Puts on her bonnet of pins and
Says I
Thought I’d find you much quicker than this, you
Must’ve thought I didn’t exist, poor you
I do
We’d better go before your boyfriends cry[Bridge]
Take the stairs to the bottom where the lights are out
And I’ll be there with a lighter and a Nabokov cocktail
Forget the questionnaires and the oral histories
I don’t care how many times you almost said you missed me
It’s a cup trick shell, it’s a puff of smoke
And it gets me every time, it’s a pretty good joke
I know that you miss me, I know that you miss me
This stuff takes a lifetime
[Chorus]
She finishes off my drink and
Puts on her bonnet of pins and
Says I
Thought I’d find you much quicker than this, you
Must’ve thought I didn’t exist, poor you
I do
I thought I’d find you much quicker than this, you
Must’ve thought I didn’t exist, poor you
I do
We’d better go before your boyfriends cry
Bonnet Of Pins by Matt Berninger
“Bonnet Of Pins” is the first single from Matt Berninger’s second album, “Get Sunk,” released in 2022. This song marks Berninger’s return to original songwriting after a five-year hiatus, showcasing his unique ability to weave intricate narratives through music.
Quick summary
The song explores themes of nostalgia, grief, and the complexities of past relationships, blending humor with melancholy as it reflects on a reunion with a former lover.
In-depth lyrics analysis
“Bonnet Of Pins” opens with vivid imagery that sets the tone for a reflective journey. The mention of a cigarette and a styrofoam cup evokes a sense of casual intimacy, suggesting a moment shared between two people in a familiar setting. This imagery is not just about the physical objects but also symbolizes the remnants of a past relationship, hinting at the comfort and warmth that once existed. The act of taking a drink without asking can be interpreted as a metaphor for the uninvited nature of memories that resurface unexpectedly, often bringing both joy and pain.
As the song progresses, Berninger introduces the character of the former flame, who is described as wearing “her father’s feather jacket.” This detail is significant as it connects the present to the past, suggesting that while time has passed, some elements remain unchanged. The jacket symbolizes protection and nostalgia, evoking a sense of childhood innocence and familial ties. The line about her looking “younger now” adds a layer of complexity, hinting at the bittersweet nature of memories where time can distort perceptions, making the past seem more vibrant than the present.
The chorus encapsulates the song’s central theme of grief intertwined with humor. Berninger’s acknowledgment that “grief can also be a little funny” reflects a nuanced understanding of loss. It suggests that while the pain of separation is real, there are moments of levity that can arise from reminiscing about shared experiences. This duality is a hallmark of Berninger’s songwriting, where he masterfully balances the weight of sorrow with light-heartedness.
Throughout the song, the lyrics create a dreamlike quality, as if the listener is caught in a memory that is both vivid and elusive. The use of sensory details invites the audience to immerse themselves in the scene, making it relatable and poignant. The juxtaposition of humor and grief serves to highlight the complexities of human emotions, reminding us that even in moments of sadness, there can be a spark of joy or absurdity.
In conclusion, “Bonnet Of Pins” is a rich tapestry of memories, emotions, and reflections on past relationships. Berninger’s ability to craft a narrative that feels both personal and universal allows listeners to connect deeply with the themes of nostalgia, loss, and the bittersweet nature of life.
