For Jasmine
bôa
The Eternal Journey of Learning and Wonder: A Reflection on 'For Jasmine'
Bôa's song 'For Jasmine' is a heartfelt ode to the process of growing up and the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder and curiosity throughout life. The lyrics are a tender observation of a child's development, capturing the innocence and beauty of learning about the world. The repeated emphasis on 'never stop learning' serves as a poignant reminder that growth and understanding are lifelong pursuits, not just confined to childhood.
The song opens with the narrator watching a child, presumably Jasmine, as she observes the world around her. This act of watching is not passive; it is filled with admiration and a deep sense of connection. The lyrics 'Child understanding / About the way that a soul, on a soul, on a soul can be born / Can be beautiful' suggest a profound appreciation for the child's innate ability to grasp the complexities of life and human connections. This line also hints at the cyclical nature of life and the continuous birth of new souls and new understandings.
As the song progresses, it delves into the bittersweet reality of growing older. The narrator reflects on how adults often forget the simple joys that once made them smile, urging the child to 'never stop learning' and 'never stop wondering.' This advice is not just for the child but also a reminder to the narrator and, by extension, the listeners. The imagery of 'wandering through the garden of life / Picking up flowers and eating them' symbolizes the exploration and consumption of life's experiences, both beautiful and nourishing. The song concludes with a powerful repetition of the plea to keep learning and feeling, emphasizing that this journey of discovery is essential to the human experience.
'For Jasmine' is a beautiful, introspective piece that encourages listeners to cherish their curiosity and continue learning, no matter their age. It speaks to the universal experience of growing up and the enduring importance of maintaining a sense of wonder in a complex world.