Let It Go
Alex G
Navigating Loss and Acceptance in 'Let It Go' by Alex G
Alex G's 'Let It Go' is a poignant exploration of loss, existential questioning, and the process of acceptance. The song opens with seemingly mundane observations about a 'really big car' and a 'really big van,' which can be interpreted as metaphors for the significant roles and spaces people occupy in our lives. The repeated question, 'Are you really there?' suggests a deep sense of uncertainty and longing, possibly directed towards someone who is no longer present.
The lyrics take a more personal turn with the lines, 'I'm sure sorry about your son / I heard he was a lot of fun / And I'm sorry 'bout the way / That he ran away.' This verse introduces a narrative of loss and regret, hinting at the death or departure of a loved one. The mention of the son being 'a lot of fun' adds a layer of nostalgia and sorrow, emphasizing the emotional weight of the loss. The repeated questioning of presence underscores the difficulty in coming to terms with this absence.
The song concludes with a shift in perspective, moving from personal grief to a broader existential reflection. 'It's a really great place / Way up here in outer space / You know it's all just a race' suggests a cosmic viewpoint, where earthly concerns are seen as part of a larger, perhaps more indifferent, universe. The repeated refrain, 'You can let it go,' serves as a mantra for acceptance, encouraging the listener to release their hold on grief and uncertainty. Alex G's minimalist yet evocative lyrics create a space for introspection, making 'Let It Go' a deeply resonant piece about the human experience of loss and the journey towards acceptance.