Lost Souls

Loreena McKennitt's song "Lost Souls" is a poetic exploration of the human journey, both physical and emotional, towards finding a sense of home and belonging. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a voyage that is both literal and metaphorical, capturing the essence of life's cyclical nature. The opening lines, "The journey's over; another's just begun," suggest that life is a series of continuous journeys, each ending marking the beginning of a new one. This cyclical theme is reinforced by the imagery of moonlight and sunlight, symbolizing the passage of time and the constancy of change.

The song delves into the feeling of being adrift, as seen in the lines, "So far we drifted, like ships upon the sea / Horizons fading, we lost to destiny." This metaphor of drifting ships conveys a sense of aimlessness and the struggle to find direction. The storm clouds and vanity mentioned in the lyrics represent the obstacles and personal flaws that hinder one's journey home. Yet, despite these challenges, there is a persistent hope and determination to return, as expressed in the recurring line, "I'm coming home again."

McKennitt also touches on the interconnectedness of nature and the human experience. The imagery of swallows in flight, moonlit oceans, and trees reaching upward evokes a sense of harmony and longing. The line, "We walk the hillside like lost souls in the night," captures the universal search for meaning and light in times of darkness. Ultimately, the song is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the belief that, no matter how lost we may feel, there is always a way back home, guided by a true heart and unwavering faith.