
The Meaning Behind The Song: Cop Car by Mitski
I first heard this song on a lazy Sunday afternoon, as I scrolled through an endless sea of music recommendations from friends. Mitski’s haunting voice and poignant lyrics immediately struck a chord within me. “Cop Car” is a previously unreleased song that Mitski had played live, but it was finally recorded and released as part of the soundtrack for the film The Turning. The song showcases Mitski’s ability to convey raw emotion through her music.
With every line, Mitski’s vulnerability shines through. She sings, “I get mean when I’m nervous like a bad dog,” reflecting on her tendency to become defensive when she feels insecure. The metaphor of a bad dog brings to mind a wounded animal, lashing out to protect itself. This line resonates deeply with me, as I am all too familiar with the way anxiety can sometimes turn me into someone I don’t recognize.
The chorus of the song, “I miss riding horses, I miss running fast,” reveals Mitski’s longing for freedom and the simplicity of childhood. The imagery of riding horses and running fast evokes a sense of unbridled joy and carefree abandon. These lines remind me of my own yearning for the innocence and boundless enthusiasm of youth.
Mitski also confesses, “I’ve loved many boys, I’ve loved many girls.” This line hints at a fluidity in her sexuality, breaking societal norms and embracing love in all its forms. Mitski speaks of her ability to bring laughter to others, highlighting her duality as both cruel and gentle. This juxtaposition serves as a reminder that we are all complex beings, capable of both darkness and light.
Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of immortality and never-ending existence: “I will never die, I will never die.” These lines could be interpreted as a desire for eternal life or a refusal to be erased and forgotten. In a world where our lives often feel fleeting, Mitski’s words offer a glimmer of hope and a plea for permanence.
The song ends with the line, “So I will burn in this movie theater.” This final verse feels enigmatic and open to interpretation. It could suggest a willingness to sacrifice oneself for the sake of art or a metaphorical burning, representing the intensity and passion Mitski puts into her music.
“Cop Car” is a beautiful and introspective piece of music that showcases Mitski’s ability to capture complex emotions through her lyrics and haunting melodies. With each listen, I find myself discovering new layers of meaning within the song. It serves as a reminder that music has the power to transcend words and touch our souls in profound ways.
Credits:
Produced By Patrick Hyland
Written By Mitski
Release Date: January 21, 2020
Tags: Rock, Grunge, Chamber Music, Soundtrack, Alternative Rock, Indie Rock
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