St Swithin's Day

Billy Bragg's 'St Swithin's Day' is a poignant reflection on nostalgia, lost love, and the passage of time. The song's lyrics are imbued with a sense of longing and melancholy, as the narrator reminisces about a past relationship that has since faded. The reference to St Swithin's Day, a day in British folklore associated with weather predictions, serves as a metaphor for the unpredictability and transience of life and love. The mention of historical events like the Battle of Agincourt juxtaposed with personal memories underscores the contrast between significant historical moments and the intimate, yet fleeting, moments of personal relationships.

The lyrics convey a deep sense of loss and yearning. The narrator reflects on the times they hoped would last, only to see them pass by quickly, much like a train. The imagery of standing together at the edge of a platform, unmoved by the passing trains, symbolizes the stagnation and emotional distance that has developed over time. The act of making love to a memory highlights the struggle to hold on to the past, even as it slips away. The narrator misses the 'thunder' and 'rain,' metaphors for the passion and intensity of the past relationship, which are now absent.

The song also touches on the difficulty of moving on. The narrator acknowledges the impact of the other person's honesty, which feels like a fire, burning and painful. The Polaroids, representing memories, are destined to fade, much like the love that was once thought to be eternal. The final line, 'On St Swithin's Day,' brings the song full circle, emphasizing the theme of impermanence and the inevitable fading of both memories and emotions. Billy Bragg's raw and emotive delivery further enhances the song's introspective and bittersweet tone, making 'St Swithin's Day' a powerful meditation on love and loss.