Kyoto
Phoebe Bridgers Jackson Browne Lyrics

The lyrics of Phoebe Bridgers and Jackson Browne's song "Kyoto" carry a melancholic and reflective tone as they delve into themes of regret, relationships, and personal growth. The opening lines describe a day off in Kyoto that quickly turns mundane, as the singer gets bored at the temple and ends up at a 7-Eleven. This scene sets the stage for a series of reflections on missed opportunities and disconnected relationships. The mention of the band taking the speed train and going to the arcade hints at a desire for excitement and change, yet the singer hesitates, indicating a sense of passivity or resignation.

The lyrics then shift focus to a phone call from a distant acquaintance, who reveals they are getting sober. The mention of payphones and the cost to make the call evoke a sense of distance and strain in the relationship. The singer acknowledges receiving a letter but dismisses the need to read it, suggesting a reluctance to confront difficult emotions or face the reality of the situation. The reference to killing or being killed carries a metaphorical weight, hinting at the internal struggles and conflicts the singer is grappling with.

As the song progresses, the singer reflects on a trip to Tokyo and a realization that they no longer have the same desire to see the world. The sunset becoming a "freak show" and driving out to the suburbs to stare at chemtrails with their little brother paint a picture of searching for meaning and connection in unfamiliar places. The mention of a missed birthday call and the nostalgia for times past, such as getting the truck fixed and driving it at age twenty-five, underscore a sense of longing for simpler times and overlooked moments of closeness.

The repetition of the lines "I don't forgive you / But please don't hold me to it" conveys a complex mix of emotions, including resentment, forgiveness, and avoidance. The singer admits to lying and being a liar, suggesting a struggle with honesty and self-awareness. The final line, "I'm a liar / Who lies / 'Cause I'm a liar," encapsulates a sense of self-awareness and self-doubt, hinting at a deeper internal conflict and the complexity of human nature. Overall, the lyrics of "Kyoto" offer a poignant exploration of past mistakes, strained relationships, and the elusive nature of personal authenticity.