Kina Grannis's song "New Slang" is a cover of the original song by The Shins. The lyrics are introspective and poetic, open to interpretation. The song talks about various themes such as nostalgia, lost love, and longing for a simpler time. In the first verse, the lyrics mention "gold teeth and a curse for this town," which can be seen as symbols of wealth and negativity that the songwriter feels trapped by. They express a desire to go back to a time when they were happier and had no worries or expectations. The chorus talks about the potential of a relationship, using the metaphor of a gull (seagull) taking to the wind. If the person had reciprocated the songwriter's feelings, they would have been willing to take risks and be free, like a bird dancing in the sky. The line "the rest of our lives would 'a fared well" suggests the possibility of a fulfilling, happy future together. The second verse refers to "new slang" representing a fresh perspective or a different way of looking at things. The lyrics suggest that even in the face of imperfections and difficult times, one should remain hopeful and strive for what is right. The mention of dawn breaking like a bull through the hall signifies a new beginning, but regret is also present as the songwriter acknowledges that reaching out might have been a mistake. The bridge of the song shows a sense of frustration and loneliness. The songwriter describes looking in on a good life that they may never find and questions their own ability to navigate life without trust or without making mistakes. The final verse uses vivid imagery to convey a wish for self-destruction or escape from the struggles of life. The lyric about bakers cutting their thumbs and bleeding into their buns until they melt away can be seen as a metaphor for sacrificing oneself for the sake of finding relief or release. Overall, "New Slang" explores themes of longing, missed opportunities, and the search for meaning and happiness in life. The lyrics are open-ended, allowing listeners to relate to their own experiences and emotions.
