Summerlong

Kathleen Edwards' song 'Summerlong' delves into the complexities of a fleeting romance, capturing the bittersweet emotions that come with it. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is familiar with the transient nature of relationships, likening them to a game where the rules are well-known. The lines 'One, two, three and I'm safe' and 'Count real slow to five' suggest a sense of temporariness and the need to protect oneself from getting too attached. This metaphor of a game highlights the cautious approach the narrator takes in matters of the heart.

The chorus reveals a deeper layer of vulnerability and longing. The plea 'Please don't let this be summerlong' signifies a desire for the relationship to last beyond the fleeting summer season. Summer, often associated with temporary flings and short-lived passions, becomes a metaphor for the impermanence the narrator fears. The repetition of 'You've got me feeling a brand new way' indicates that this relationship has sparked new emotions and a sense of hope, contrasting with past experiences that were perhaps more guarded and less fulfilling.

The song also touches on the internal struggle of reconciling past disappointments with present desires. Lines like 'All the nights and wasted time / Trying to get my head to change its mind' reflect the narrator's efforts to overcome previous heartbreaks and embrace the possibility of something more enduring. The mention of 'All the talk of what it could be / When it never was' underscores the disillusionment with past relationships that never lived up to their potential. Ultimately, 'Summerlong' is a poignant exploration of the tension between the fear of impermanence and the hope for lasting connection.