Guitar Guitar
Jake and the Rest of the Jewels Lyrics

These lyrics from "Guitar Guitar" by Jake and the Rest of the Jewels depict a journey of self-discovery and the realization that the singer has always had a sense of direction and clarity, despite being in a seemingly dark and uncertain place. The idea of going to a place where silence erased the singer suggests a state of introspection or solitude, where they can reflect on their experiences and gain insight.

The line "I would realize I was never in the dark" implies that even though the singer may have felt lost or unsure, they were actually always aware of their surroundings and the emotions they felt. The phrase "The things I felt always in front of me" suggests that these emotions or experiences were always present, but the singer may not have been able to put them into words or fully comprehend them at the time.

The following lines, "So, here I go, getting on a plane / Escaping the snow for Hawaii / Driving up a mountain to kiss a man / With a beard of snow against his suntan," depict a physical journey to find someone or something. The mention of escaping the snow for Hawaii implies a desire for warmth and a change of scenery. Kissing a man with a beard of snow against his suntan suggests a meeting with someone who embodies both strength and vulnerability.

However, when the singer hears the word "love," they have a sudden realization or epiphany. The word seems to trigger something within them, prompting them to run. This moment suggests that the idea or experience of love holds significant weight for the singer, possibly triggering a deeper understanding or fear that they may not have been prepared to confront.

The lyrics then shift to reflect on the concept of getting lost in the woods without a map. This metaphorical representation suggests a sense of confusion and uncertainty. The singer contemplates the idea that feeling love in an unfamiliar way could potentially be seen as a negative or challenging experience. This line underscores the idea that love can be complex and not always straightforward.

However, the final lines "But now I know better / And remind myself / I wasn't wrong about Jolly Old Saint Nick" close the song with a sense of reassurance and clarity. The singer acknowledges that they have gained a deeper understanding and perspective, and even though they may have had doubts or uncertainties, the notions they held about Jolly Old Saint Nick - perhaps representing faith or belief - were not misplaced. This could symbolize a realization that their own instincts and feelings about love were valid and true, providing a sense of reassurance and self-assurance.