Once Twice Melody

Beach House's 'Once Twice Melody' is a mesmerizing journey through the realms of memory, time, and ephemeral beauty. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a summer romance, where the protagonist is captivated by a singular presence, described as 'the only one.' The imagery of 'days go by in her eyes' suggests a deep, almost hypnotic connection, where time seems to flow differently in the presence of this person. The reference to 'Belle de jour,' a French term meaning 'beauty of the day,' adds a layer of sophistication and timeless allure to the narrative.

The song's chorus, 'Once, twice, melody,' serves as a haunting refrain, emphasizing the cyclical nature of memories and emotions. The shadow mentioned in the lyrics symbolizes the inescapable presence of past experiences, always lingering no matter where one goes. This shadow could represent the lasting impact of a significant relationship or moment in time, forever etched in the protagonist's mind. The use of 'la-la-la' and 'ba-da-da-da' adds a dreamy, almost lullaby-like quality to the song, enhancing its ethereal atmosphere.

The second verse introduces more lush imagery with 'the purple on the vine' and 'the velveteen tree line,' evoking a sense of natural beauty and tranquility. The protagonist's attempt to understand a 'never, never land' suggests a longing for an idealized, perhaps unattainable, state of being. The juxtaposition of 'the Sun, the Moon, the raindrops too' encapsulates the full spectrum of life's experiences, from the bright and joyful to the melancholic and reflective. Beach House's signature dreamy soundscape, combined with these evocative lyrics, creates a poignant meditation on love, memory, and the passage of time.