Paper and Ink by Tracy Chapman is a reflective song that delves into themes of memory, love, and the passage of time. Chapman uses the metaphor of 'paper and ink' to symbolize letters and written words, which immortalize fleeting moments and emotions. The song speaks to the power of writing as a way to preserve memories and communicate feelings that are otherwise elusive. Key themes include the enduring nature of written words, the nostalgia of past relationships, and the bittersweet beauty of recalling cherished moments. Particularly poignant moments in the song highlight Chapman's deep emotional connection to the written word, where she contemplates how these fragments of paper and ink encapsulate significant parts of her life and love.