Gibbard has been actively writing, recording and releasing music since 1994, when he graduated from Olypmic High School. He appeared as a guest on Jimmy Tamborello's (his Postal Service collaborator) Dntel album entitled Life is Full of Possibilities (2001) - Specifically, he contributed vocals to the song "(This Is) The Dream of Evan and Chan.". In addition, played bass for the band Pedro the Lion on their 2000 tour, and he played drums on the song 'Carparts' for The Long Winters' 2002 album, "The Worst You Can Do Is Harm." He has also released a split EP with Andrew Kenny (of American Analog Set) in the Home Series on the Post-Parlo record label on March 30, 2004. Styrofoam's 2004 album Nothing's Lost features Gibbard's vocals on the track "Couches in Alleys." Additionally, Ben contributed vocals to a song (Handle With Care) on Rilo Kiley frontwoman Jenny Lewis's side project Jenny Lewis with the Watson Twins's album, Rabbit Fur Coat.
Gibbard will make his acting debut in the film "Brief Interviews with Hideous Men," an adaptation of David Foster Wallace's collection of short stories. Actor John Krasinski (NBC's "The Office") wrote the screenplay and directed the film.
Line Of Best Fit
Ben Gibbard Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
don't stand too close without apologies.
Cut-throat, cut out candid glimpses and
wind me up, I'm ready.
These things take my time and energy;
don't stand too close without apologies.
I remember being inside of something more than you,
I can't escape this line of best fit.
In Ben Gibbard's song "Line of Best Fit," he reflects on the weight and toll of certain aspects of life that consume his time and energy. With lyrics like "Cut-throat, cut out candid glimpses and wind me up, I'm ready," Gibbard seems to be acknowledging the intensity of certain situations and the need to brace oneself for the impact. The repeated line "These things take my time and energy; don't stand too close without apologies" serves as a warning to those around him to be mindful of how their actions or demands may be affecting him.
As the song progresses, Gibbard reflects on feeling like he was once a part of something bigger than what he currently finds himself in. He sings, "I remember being inside of something more than you, but I can't escape this line of best fit." While the meaning of these lines is somewhat ambiguous, it seems to imply a sense of longing for a deeper connection or a greater purpose. However, despite this desire to break free from the confines of the "line of best fit," Gibbard notes that it's something he cannot escape.
Overall, "Line of Best Fit" is a contemplative and introspective song about navigating the struggles and frustrations of life, and the limitations that sometimes come with it.
Line by Line Meaning
These things take my time and energy;
My focus and effort are consumed by these tasks or activities.
don't stand too close without apologies.
Please be mindful of personal space and offer apologies if you invade it.
Cut-throat, cut out candid glimpses and
Eliminate honesty and realness to succeed in a ruthless environment.
wind me up, I'm ready.
I'm prepared and eager to begin or take action.
I remember being inside of something more than you,
I used to be part of a greater entity or idea than what you represent.
but I can't escape this line of best fit.
Despite my desire to break away, I am constrained by limitations imposed by external factors and expectations.
I can't escape this line of best fit.
Reiterating the theme of being bound by constraints and unable to break free.
Contributed by Brooklyn P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.