Lessons
Dermot Kennedy
The Bittersweet Lessons of Love and Loss
Dermot Kennedy's song 'Lessons' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring impact of past relationships. The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and reflection, as the narrator grapples with the memories of a love that was once profound but ultimately unattainable. The repeated refrain, 'Hold onto love tightly, honey, it may never come back,' serves as a haunting reminder of the fleeting nature of love and the importance of cherishing it while it lasts.
The song delves into the emotional turmoil that accompanies the end of a significant relationship. Lines like 'It's not easy to forget how I loved you' and 'I'd give anything to see those eyes' highlight the narrator's struggle to move on and the irreplaceable nature of the lost love. The lyrics also touch on the inevitability of loss, with phrases such as 'I've learned in love and death we don't decide,' suggesting a resigned acceptance of life's uncontrollable events.
Kennedy's heartfelt delivery and evocative imagery create a vivid picture of a love that was both beautiful and painful. The song's narrative arc, from the initial realization of the relationship's end to the hope for the other person's future happiness, reflects a journey of personal growth and understanding. The closing lines, 'Easy to forget how I loved you, easier than anything else,' encapsulate the bittersweet nature of moving on, acknowledging that while the love may fade, the lessons learned remain indelible.