Dance Gavin Dance – “Back On Deck” Lyrics Meaning

Photo of author
Written By Joanna Landrum

Joanna holds a BSc in English Literature and uses her expertise in literary analysis to uncover the deeper meaning of her favorite songs.

Sometimes, music paints vivid pictures of nostalgia, betrayal, and the search for authenticity. “Back On Deck” by Dance Gavin Dance is a raw exploration of these themes. At its core, the song delves into the realm of past mistakes, deceit, and the yearning to find something genuine in a world brimming with facades. The songwriter showcases an internal battle reminiscent of times when trust was shattered. Amid the chaos of these sentiments, there’s a hint of hope and a desperate plea for authenticity.

Have you ever felt like the past has a tight grip on you? Dive into the labyrinth of emotions with Dance Gavin Dance and discover a journey relatable to many.


“Back On Deck” Lyrics Meaning

The song begins with the illusion of comfort – “whispers of sweet bullshit.” It’s deceptive love, the kind that feels right but is far from genuine. These whispered lies bring back old regrets, reminding the protagonist of past mistakes. With lines like “Cover up my attention” and “Give me a break,” there’s a sense of overwhelming pressure and the longing to escape.

The chorus captures a paradox: the desire for healing (“Cauterize the hole inside my chest”) juxtaposed with the fleeting nature of truth and decency. The repetition of “I’m not the one who’s holding on” serves as a mantra, a defiant proclamation of letting go. Yet, the pain lingers.

“September” acts as a metaphorical timeframe, possibly symbolizing a significant event or moment of betrayal. As the song progresses, there’s a recognition of stagnancy, conveyed through lines like “You get bored with an easy life.” It’s a commentary on our constant search for thrill, even at the cost of authenticity.

The bridge highlights the essence of the song – a pursuit of genuineness. “Tapping into all the emotions” and “Can’t recall the smell of the ocean” resonate with moments when we lose touch with genuine feelings, yearning for “something real.”

The Story Behind “Back On Deck”

Dance Gavin Dance has been known for the intricate lyrics and deeply emotional themes. The band often leaves interpretations open-ended for their listeners; a palpable sense of a personal journey is embedded within its lyrics. This song appears to reflect a tumultuous phase, perhaps echoing sentiments of betrayal, lost trust, and the subsequent pursuit of genuine emotion.

The recurring theme of “old regrets” suggests a past that continues to haunt, one that’s punctuated with mistakes and moments of vulnerability. It’s plausible that the writer, during the time of crafting this song, was navigating a complex labyrinth of feelings stemming from past relationships or friendships that left indelible marks. The repeated mention of “September” might indicate a specific time frame, a poignant month filled with memories that brought about this introspection. This month, whether symbolic or literal, holds significant emotional weight.

“Back On Deck” is more than just music. It’s about being honest, facing old problems, and wanting to feel genuine emotions even when there’s so much dishonesty around.