Year Of The Tiger

Myles Kennedy's 'Year Of The Tiger' is a deeply personal and evocative song that delves into themes of loss, resilience, and renewal. The song is a tribute to Kennedy's father, who passed away when Myles was just a child. The 'Year of the Tiger' refers to the Chinese zodiac year in which his father died, adding a layer of cultural and temporal significance to the narrative. The lyrics convey a journey of overcoming grief and finding strength in the face of profound loss.

The song opens with a declaration of determination: 'In the year of the tiger, I won't weep and moan.' This sets the tone for the rest of the song, emphasizing a resolve to move forward despite the pain. The imagery of roaming and rolling bones suggests a restless quest for meaning and closure. The repeated mention of 'the only love I've known has slipped away' underscores the depth of the emotional void left by his father's death.

As the song progresses, Kennedy speaks of staking his claim and saving his kin, indicating a protective and proactive stance. The reference to a 'cold, cruel July' and the 'pale horse'—a symbol of death—adds a haunting quality to the narrative. Yet, amidst the darkness, the line 'love alone keeps us alive' serves as a beacon of hope, suggesting that love and memory can sustain us even in the darkest times.

The song's conclusion, with the act of throwing ashes into the wind and resolving to keep fighting, symbolizes a final act of letting go and embracing the future. 'Year Of The Tiger' is not just a song about loss; it's a powerful anthem of resilience, capturing the essence of human strength and the enduring power of love and memory.