Frank Turner - Mittens Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What inspired Frank Turner to write the song 'Mittens'?

   Frank Turner was inspired to write 'Mittens' after buying used postcards from thrift shops. He found them fascinating as they offered a snapshot of someone’s life. The song reflects his feelings of unrequited love and the realization of self-worth.

2. Why did Frank Turner insist on naming the song 'Mittens'?

   Frank Turner faced resistance from his record label regarding the title 'Mittens,' but he stood his ground. He believed the title was significant to the song's theme and told the label to ‘go f--k themselves’ if they couldn’t accept it.

3. What unique musical element did 'Mittens' introduce in Frank Turner's work?

   'Mittens' features a horn section, which was a first for Frank Turner. Despite initial skepticism from his team, Turner insisted on including it, and the horns added a distinctive touch to the song, elevating its sound.

4. How long did it take for Frank Turner to finalize 'Mittens'?

   Frank Turner worked on 'Mittens' for several years, creating between 50 to 60 different versions of the song in demos and soundchecks. He experimented extensively until he felt the final version was just right.

5. Does Frank Turner mention any specific locations in the song 'Mittens'?

   Yes, Frank Turner references both New York and Holloway in the song. He narrates finding the postcards in a New York thrift store and later reflects on his feelings while in Holloway.

6. What is the significance of the mittens in the song?

   The mittens symbolize the imperfect fit in his past relationship, contrasting with gloves which would suggest a perfect fit. The mittens were a gift from his former lover, highlighting their mismatched connection and unrequited love.