The song "Buy A Bag" by Joseph Arthur has a somewhat abstract and poetic meaning that can be open to interpretation. It explores themes of materialism, societal expectations, personal autonomy, and the search for happiness. In the lyrics, the narrator refers to a woman who is willing to take him to Denver or pay for his "man made," which could be interpreted as a reference to material possessions or possibly drugs. The line "Wanna buy a bag, I pay like everybody else" suggests that the narrator is willing to indulge in these pleasures but acknowledges that he is not exempt from the consequences or costs involved. The mention of the woman wearing a nightgown and showing a nipple may represent a provocative or seductive behavior, but it could also be seen as a metaphor for vulnerability or the revealing of one's true self. The repeated line "I pay like everybody else" reinforces the idea that everyone, regardless of their desires or actions, must face the consequences and bear the costs of their choices. The lyrics also touch upon the idea that the creators or "makers" of society are often disconnected or unaware of the impact of their creations. They are described as comatose, suggesting a lack of consciousness or awareness. Despite this, they still benefit the most from their creations, just like anyone else purchasing a bag, they pay the same price. The song introduces the idea of daughters having fun while looking for guns, which could symbolize their search for power, agency, or a means of protection in a society that may not readily provide it. It implies that everyone, regardless of gender, seeks satisfaction and fulfillment in their own ways, and they too must bear the costs. The chorus suggests that it's acceptable to find joy and meaning in our own minds and to hold onto anything that brings decency or positivity in our lives. However, the narrator also emphasizes that when we make choices or buy into certain desires or possessions, we still face the same consequences as everybody else. The final lines of the song touch upon the narrator's feeling of loneliness and the importance of taking care of oneself and one's own needs. It implies that if the narrator were to leave, the person left behind would also have to face the same costs and consequences as everyone else. Overall, "Buy A Bag" conveys a contemplation of societal norms, personal autonomy, and the inevitable consequences that come with choices and desires. It encourages listeners to reflect on their own actions, choices, and societal expectations while acknowledging that we all pay the price for our decisions in the end.
