I Remember

Damien Rice's song 'I Remember' is a poignant exploration of memory, longing, and the complexities of love. The lyrics are rich with vivid imagery and emotional depth, capturing moments of intense connection and the subsequent pain of separation. The song opens with the singer recalling the first time he saw his lover, a moment so impactful that it caused his mind to 'stop working.' This sets the tone for a narrative steeped in nostalgia, where each remembered detail is laden with emotional significance.

The recurring refrain, 'I want you here tonight,' underscores a deep yearning for the presence of the loved one. This desire is juxtaposed with the disbelief and wonder at what the singer has found in this relationship, suggesting a mix of awe and desperation. The lines 'Nothing is taking me down, down, down / Except you my love' highlight the duality of love as both a source of immense joy and profound sorrow. The imagery of 'taxied out of a storm' and 'ships were sailing' further emphasizes the tumultuous nature of the relationship, likening it to a journey fraught with challenges.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics take a darker turn with references to 'sanity,' 'scorn,' and 'paper maché,' suggesting a struggle with self-worth and the emotional toll of the relationship. The plea to 'come all ye lost' and 'come all ye reborn' indicates a desire for redemption and renewal, while the line 'this is love, this is porn' starkly contrasts the sacred and the profane aspects of love. The song concludes with a desperate need for communication and understanding, as the singer repeatedly asks, 'What the hell do you want?' This final plea encapsulates the confusion and frustration that often accompany deep emotional connections.