Still (Over The Hedge Version)
Ben Folds
Embracing Change: The Ever-Evolving Nature of Life in Ben Folds' 'Still (Over The Hedge Version)'
Ben Folds' 'Still (Over The Hedge Version)' is a poignant reflection on the inevitability of change and the human desire for constancy. The song opens with the narrator acknowledging the pressure to appear as though they have all the answers, only to reveal their vulnerability when faced with life's unpredictability. This sets the stage for the central theme: change is an inescapable part of existence, even when things seem static.
The lyrics delve into personal experiences, such as the narrator's relationship with their mother, who misses her child but has also undergone significant changes herself. This personal anecdote underscores the broader message that change affects everyone and everything, regardless of how still or stable they may appear. The repetition of the phrase 'Even the things that seem still are still changing' serves as a mantra, reminding listeners that change is a constant force in life.
Folds also touches on the coping mechanisms people use to deal with change, such as focusing on minute details to avoid confronting larger, more overwhelming shifts. This introspective approach highlights the struggle between the desire for stability and the reality of perpetual change. The song's gentle, almost lullaby-like melody, punctuated by the 'Lada lada' refrains, adds a layer of soothing acceptance to the message, encouraging listeners to embrace change rather than resist it.
Ultimately, 'Still (Over The Hedge Version)' is a beautifully crafted meditation on the fluid nature of life. It invites listeners to find peace in the knowledge that change is a universal experience, and that even in moments of stillness, transformation is always occurring.