The song "Monster in the Pack" by Emma Pollock tells a story of a person living a mundane and unfulfilling life, seeking some sort of excitement or purpose. The lyrics describe the protagonist buying cherries in a brown paper bag from a street stall, but there is a sense of danger or darkness lurking beneath the surface. The repeated mention of a "monster in the pack" suggests that the protagonist has made a deal or formed a relationship with someone who may not have their best interests at heart. This monster figure pays them with hard cash, helping them "pull in the slack," implying that they are involved in some shady or questionable activities. The protagonist mentions going to church, not for their faith, but because they like the things they have there. This could imply a sense of emptiness or a desire for something more substantial in their life. The references to the storm coming and the warning from the sun create a sense of impending danger or change. The protagonist feels trapped, with the loud noise in their head and a breaking heart, longing for someone to listen and understand. The mention of Richard of York spitting colors in the sky is a reference to the mnemonic "Richard Of York Gave Battle In Vain" (ROYGBIV) to remember the colors of the rainbow. This image could symbolize a burst of vivid and vibrant experiences or emotions that seem out of reach for the protagonist. Overall, "Monster in the Pack" portrays a character yearning for meaning and adventure in their life while being entangled in circumstances that may be harmful or dangerous. The song explores themes of longing, dissatisfaction, and the search for something more.
