Death Cab for Cutie - You Moved Away Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who wrote the lyrics for 'You Moved Away' by Death Cab for Cutie?

   The lyrics for 'You Moved Away' were written by Benjamin Gibbard, the lead vocalist and guitarist of Death Cab for Cutie.

2. What inspired Ben Gibbard to write 'You Moved Away'?

   'You Moved Away' was inspired by the departure of Derek Erdman, an eccentric artist known in Seattle. Ben Gibbard mentioned that Erdman's move back to Chicago had a profound impact on him and the city, as it symbolized the loss of a unique spirit in Seattle.

3. When did Derek Erdman move away from Seattle?

   Derek Erdman moved away from Seattle and returned to his native Chicago in September 2017 after many years as a notable presence in the city's art scene.

4. How did Derek Erdman's departure affect his friends according to the song?

   According to the song, when Derek Erdman moved away, all his friends felt irrationally betrayed and tried to convince him to stay. His departure left them feeling empty and abandoned.

5. What activities are described in the song related to moving away?

   'You Moved Away' describes several activities associated with moving, such as selling records and furniture, mopping floors, filling cracks to get a security deposit back, closing bank accounts, and checking tires before leaving.

6. How does Ben Gibbard describe his feelings about passing by Derek's vacant apartment?

   'Since you moved away,' Ben Gibbard mentions that he walks past Derek's vacant apartment almost every day. This line conveys a sense of lingering emptiness and loss following Derek’s departure from Seattle.