PlasticSole Single: "English Teacher"
"English Teacher" by PlasticSole is a reflective indie rock pop song that skillfully navigates the journey from youthful immaturity to adult understanding, specifically in the context of appreciating the profound impact of teachers. The song's structure brilliantly contrasts the narrator's past and present perspectives: verses capture the humorous frustrations and often prejudiced views of their school days, while the choruses express an adult's regret and a newfound desire to have truly known their teachers. From disliking English teachers with their "floral skirts and baskets on their bikes" and feeling misunderstood, to humorously (and regrettably) mischaracterizing drama teachers and their lack of understanding toward diversity, and finally, to playfully describing RE teachers while touching upon religious freedom, each verse encapsulates a distinct adolescent viewpoint. These youthful anecdotes are then powerfully recontextualized in the choruses, where the mature narrator longs for a deeper connection with these figures, recognizing the importance of understanding, empathy, and diverse perspectives that they once dismissed. Ultimately, "English Teacher" is a thought-provoking and relatable song that underscores the value of personal growth, the lasting influence of educators, and the journey toward embracing diversity and empathy.
Listen to "English Teacher" Here:
Summary Piano Song
The B-Side is "Summary Piano Song", a whimsical and nostalgic indie rock pop masterpiece, characterized by its enchanting piano melodies. Written from the perspective of a woman reflecting on her life in its autumn, the title itself is a clever play on "summery," encapsulating both the song's warm feel and its theme of summarizing one's journey. The lyrics open with the narrator contemplating her reading habits and acknowledging her gift for storytelling, capable of evoking strong emotions. She subtly hints at her age by recalling romantic experiences from 1959, expressing a desire to share her life's tales and family history, painted with vivid imagery of whispered kisses juxtaposed with her father reading history.
The song progresses as the narrator lists numerous experiences she never had—extensive travel, fancy cars, or owning a TV—yet she harbors no regrets, firmly believing that her life is far from over. This positive outlook is reinforced in the chorus, where she equates a smile with a desire for another decade and an appreciation for life's moments, alluding to the lasting influence of her "childish dreams." The middle section adds a touch of humor, with recollections of never skydiving, touring Spain, or smoking a cigar, playfully mentioning she "never wore a panama." Despite these unfulfilled experiences, she remains content, finding joy in life's simpler pleasures. The chorus returns with renewed enthusiasm, highlighting her eagerness to connect and share her story, recognizing the initiative lies with her. Ultimately, "Summary Piano Song" is a beautiful and heartwarming portrayal of nostalgia, gratitude, and self-reflection, inviting listeners to ponder their own life's journey.
