The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Careful What You Pack" by the artist "They Might Be Giants"

The meaning of the song "Careful What You Pack" by They Might Be Giants, written for the animated film "Coraline," is a cautionary tale about the dangers of curiosity and hasty decisions.

The lyrics metaphorically describe the journey of the protagonist Coraline into another world. The phrases "familiar, unfamiliar, and vaguely familiar" hint that Coraline encounters a world similar to her own, but distorted and dangerous.

"Checking every nook and cranny by the reflecting pool" is likely a reference to Coraline finding a small door that leads to a parallel world. "Stirred up the hive, swinging on the tree" symbolizes Coraline's reckless actions that awaken evil in this world.

The phrase "she doesn't understand that she's in trouble" emphasizes the heroine's naivety and childish self-confidence, who does not realize the seriousness of the situation. "A new year has arrived" is a metaphor for the irreversible changes that Coraline faces when she enters another world.

"Think what you'll take with you, because there will be no turning back" is a warning about the importance of choice and the consequences of decisions made. "She lost from the very beginning, she became different" indicates that once in this world, Coraline will no longer be able to stay the same.

"She thinks she's smart; but she's just curious" is a criticism of recklessness and arrogance, characteristic of young heroes. "She thinks she's alone and doesn't suspect that someone is watching her" is a hint of the presence of evil forces in this world that are watching Coraline.

"Waving from the shore" is a metaphor for Coraline's attempt to return to her world, which is not easy for her. The repeated phrase "she doesn't understand that she's in trouble" emphasizes that Coraline does not fully realize the danger of her situation until it is too late.

The song "Careful What You Pack" is a dark cautionary tale that calls for caution and thinking through one's desires, because there may not be a way back.