After The Rain
Little Dragon
The Ephemeral Nature of Memory and Change in 'After The Rain'
Little Dragon's 'After The Rain' delves into the transient nature of memory and the human tendency to move on from past events without fully processing them. The song opens with a vivid image of a post-rain scene, where the temperature drops and ice covers the window. This setting symbolizes a moment of clarity and reflection that follows an emotional or significant event. The imagery of waving goodbye as doves fly across a darkened sky suggests a farewell to the past and a transition into a new phase, albeit one that is not fully acknowledged or understood.
The recurring line 'After the rain we forget' underscores the central theme of the song: the collective amnesia that follows moments of upheaval or change. The lyrics suggest that as a society, we are quick to move on and prioritize immediate gains over long-term reflection. This is encapsulated in the phrase 'we make sure we gain then we leave it,' highlighting a cycle of forgetting and moving forward without addressing underlying issues. The song critiques this behavior, pointing out that it is easier to start anew without looking back, but this comes at the cost of genuine understanding and growth.
The latter part of the song shifts focus to a broader societal perspective, questioning how people will cope when their luck runs out and whether their lives will ever be the same after significant changes. The repeated questioning of 'will your life ever be the same' serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitable impact of change, even if it is temporarily forgotten. The song ends on a contemplative note, leaving listeners to ponder the consequences of their own forgetfulness and the importance of remembering and learning from the past.