Shooting Star by Elliott Smith delves into themes of angst, self-destruction, and the search for meaning. The song can be interpreted as a reflection on the fleeting nature of love and the human experience, symbolized by the metaphor of a shooting star. Key poignant moments in the song involve the narrator's introspection and the dark reality of trying to escape emotional pain. The haunting melody combined with the raw, emotional lyrics captures the essence of troubled yet beautiful moments in life.