Cards & Quarters
Local Natives Lyrics

The lyrics to "Cards & Quarters" by Local Natives are cryptic and leave much up to interpretation. The song seems to be an exploration of the push and pull of relationships and how intimacy can be both exciting and scary. The phrase "cards and quarters" likely refers to a game of chance, where luck and skill both play a role in determining the outcome. This could symbolize the unpredictability of relationships and the roles that both partners must play in order to succeed.

The Surgeon General's warning against something adds a note of danger to the proceedings, suggesting that the stakes are high and the consequences for failure are severe. The reference to leaves steeping longer could refer to the slow progress of a relationship, where both partners must be patient and let things develop at their own pace. The line "our minds have gone back home" hints at a feeling of comfort and familiarity, even in a new or uncertain situation.

The second half of the song deals with the desire for intimacy and the fear of vulnerability. The idea of a "cave made of sheets" is a cozy and intimate setting where the singer and their partner can let down their guard and be fully themselves. However, the line "scared to dance alone" suggests that there is still a nervousness and uncertainty about the relationship, and both partners may be hesitant to fully commit.

Overall, "Cards & Quarters" is a nuanced exploration of the ups and downs of relationships, and how both partners must navigate uncertainty and vulnerability in order to find intimacy and connection.