I may be way off with this one, but I think the lyrics, "We set out once with folded shirts, with hairy chests, and well-rehearsed," might reference the time when Illinois took off and Sufjan was suddenly famous, a reluctant indie "it-boy". He went from playing tiny clubs during the first leg of the tour, to selling out large seated theaters and playing with a 15-piece band. The "hairy chests" reference (which always makes me laugh) might refer to a strange feeling of power. The line "I want it all for myself" made me think of the inevitable ego-trip that would come with fame. He seems to be apologizing to someone ("Improving as I kiss the hem") that got hurt along the way.
I may be way off with this one, but I think the lyrics, "We set out once with folded shirts, with hairy chests, and well-rehearsed," might reference the time when Illinois took off and Sufjan was suddenly famous, a reluctant indie "it-boy". He went from playing tiny clubs during the first leg of the tour, to selling out large seated theaters and playing with a 15-piece band. The "hairy chests" reference (which always makes me laugh) might refer to a strange feeling of power. The line "I want it all for myself" made me think of the inevitable ego-trip that would come with fame. He seems to be apologizing to someone ("Improving as I kiss the hem") that got hurt along the way.
Your interpretation is sweet.
Your interpretation is sweet.