Closer To Fine (feat. Catherine Carlile)

Brandi Carlile's rendition of 'Closer To Fine,' featuring Catherine Carlile, is a profound exploration of the human quest for meaning and the acceptance of life's inherent uncertainties. The song opens with a reflection on the complexities of life, suggesting that the best advice is to take life less seriously. This sentiment is encapsulated in the line, 'It's only life after all,' which serves as a reminder to embrace the journey rather than obsess over the destination.

The lyrics delve into the dichotomy of darkness and light, portraying darkness as an insatiable hunger and light as a subtle, elusive call. This metaphor highlights the struggle between despair and hope, a common human experience. The imagery of wrapping fear around oneself like a blanket and sinking a ship of safety underscores the idea that clinging to security can sometimes lead to one's downfall. The protagonist's journey to various sources of wisdom—doctors, mountains, children, and fountains—illustrates the search for answers in diverse places, only to find that there is no single, definitive solution.

The recurring theme of seeking clarity and the realization that 'the less I seek my source for some definitive, closer I am to fine' suggests that peace comes from accepting ambiguity and embracing the crooked lines of life. The song's narrative arc, from seeking solace in a bar to waking up with a headache, symbolizes the often futile attempts to find quick fixes for deeper existential questions. Ultimately, 'Closer To Fine' is a celebration of the journey itself, encouraging listeners to find contentment in the process of living rather than in the pursuit of absolute answers.