Deep Cuts

The title of the novel highlights one of its key symbols, representing self-awareness and understanding. In musical terms, a “deep cut” normally refers to a lesser-known song in an artist’s body of work. Loving an artist’s deep cuts therefore signals a listener’s commitment to that body of work. In Chapter 3, Percy redefines the meaning of the phrase, suggesting that it has more to do with personal resonance. As she says, “How deep does it cut? How close to the bone? How long do you feel it?” (27). This definition provides a practical lens for understanding the songs that are referenced in the titles of each chapter. By communicating how deeply a specific song resonates with the core of her experiences, Percy conveys what she understands of herself at any given time.

In the context of the chapter in which she redefines the deep cut, Percy explains that “The King of Carrot Flowers Pt. One” by Neutral Milk Hotel cannot be considered a deep cut by traditional standards because of its popularity among collegiate listeners. On the other hand, her definition redeems the song as a deep cut because it resonates with her experiences of high school friendship, the desire to belong, and the tension of her relationship with Neil.