One Two Three Four

Feist's song "One Two Three Four" delves into the bittersweet experiences of youth, love, and the inevitable changes that come with growing up. The repetitive counting in the lyrics, "One, two, three, four," serves as a rhythmic anchor, symbolizing the simplicity and innocence of childhood, which contrasts with the complexities of teenage and adult life. The song opens with a plea for love, highlighting the sleepless nights and emotional turmoil that often accompany young love. The line "Old teenage hopes are alive at your door" suggests that the dreams and aspirations of youth persist, even as one grows older and faces new challenges.

The chorus, with its refrain "Ohhhhh you're changing your heart, Ohhhhh you know who you are," speaks to the internal transformations that occur as one matures. This change of heart can be seen as a metaphor for personal growth and self-discovery. The juxtaposition of "Sweetheart, bitterheart" and "Cosy and cold" reflects the duality of emotions experienced during this tumultuous period. The imagery of "putting the horse before the cart" suggests a sense of confusion and missteps that are part and parcel of growing up.

The song also touches on the theme of regret and the irretrievable nature of past love with the line "Money can't buy you back the love that you had then." This sentiment underscores the idea that some aspects of youth, particularly the purity of first love, cannot be reclaimed or purchased. The closing lines, "For the teenage boys, they're breaking your heart," reiterate the pain and heartbreak that often accompany young love, emphasizing the emotional rollercoaster that defines this stage of life. Feist's gentle, melodic delivery adds a layer of poignancy to the lyrics, making "One Two Three Four" a reflective and evocative exploration of youth and love.