Leaving The City

Joanna Newsom's 'Leaving The City' is a poetic exploration of change, acceptance, and the passage of time. The song opens with vivid imagery of rural life, describing a hay-filled stall, ivy-covered garden walls, and a sense of finality with a 'sold' sign. This setting evokes a sense of nostalgia and a longing for simpler times. The question 'Are we leaving the city?' suggests a contemplation of leaving behind the complexities and pressures of urban life for a more grounded existence.

The lyrics delve into the struggles and aspirations of life, symbolized by the journey on the 'black road through the gold fields.' This journey represents the pursuit of dreams and the challenges faced along the way. The lines 'The harder the hit, the deeper the dent' and 'We seek out fame, we seek a name' reflect the relentless pursuit of success and recognition, often at the cost of personal well-being. The imagery of 'bleaching a collar' and 'leeching a dollar' highlights the sacrifices made in the quest for material gain.

As the song progresses, it touches on themes of mortality and the inevitable end of all things. The arrival of 'she' in December signifies a significant change or realization, possibly a metaphor for the arrival of winter or a moment of clarity. The 'splintered light' and 'bleach the night with dawn deleting' evoke the transient nature of life and the fleeting moments of beauty and understanding. The song concludes with a sense of acceptance, acknowledging the limitations of what one is 'allowed' and finding peace in the journey and its end.