"Laminated Cat" is a song by Jeff Tweedy, the lead singer of the American band Wilco. The song is known for its abstract and enigmatic lyrics, which leave room for interpretation. The lyrics seem to be a reflection on the passing of time and the changing of seasons. It begins with the arrival of spring, symbolized by the return of leaves on the trees. The mention of snipers being harder to see may suggest a feeling of safety or relief associated with the arrival of warmer weather. The line "weeding out the weekends" could imply the act of eliminating or filtering out less significant or enjoyable moments. As the song progresses to summer, the lyrics mention the happiness derived from the way the sunshine bends, perhaps hinting at the beauty and warmth of the season. The line "hiding from your close friends" suggests a desire for isolation or solitude during this time. The mention of candy left over from Halloween, a unified theory of everything, and love left over from lovers leaving may represent remnants or leftovers of past experiences or emotions. It could imply that these things have lost their value or significance. The reference to books that are not worth reading further emphasizes the idea of discarded or unimportant things. As autumn comes, the lyrics describe sitting and staring at the TV, possibly signifying a sense of inertia or stagnation. The line "hiding in the deep end" may suggest a desire to avoid facing certain realities or responsibilities. Winter brings a change in the song again, with the mention of late-starting days and a sense of motion among dark shapes. The lyrics express a focus on feeling and experiencing emotions, possibly suggesting a deeper reflection during this season. Overall, "Laminated Cat" is a contemplative song that explores various themes such as the passage of time, the cyclical nature of seasons, and the value or worthlessness of certain experiences or emotions. The imagery and metaphors used by Tweedy allow listeners to interpret the song in their own way and find personal meaning within the lyrics.
