September Again

Nation Of Language's song 'September Again' delves into the recurring feelings of melancholy and introspection that often accompany the transition from summer to autumn. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with a sense of loss and searching for meaning as the seasons change. The imagery of wandering off in a vision of sunlight and the hands falling apart suggests a drifting apart or a loss of connection, possibly in a relationship or with oneself.

The repeated visits to church to 'reclaim the feeling' and the time spent standing naked in front of the mirror reflect a deep yearning for clarity and self-understanding. The church symbolizes a place of solace and reflection, while the mirror represents self-examination and vulnerability. The act of wanting to wear something nice but feeling unable to do so hints at a struggle with self-worth and identity. The mention of September, a month often associated with change and the end of summer, underscores the theme of transition and the passage of time.

The song's chorus, with its repetition of 'And it’s September again,' emphasizes the cyclical nature of these feelings. The protagonist seems resigned to this annual recurrence, as indicated by the line 'I don’t mind.' The stained glass and pure white ceilings evoke a sense of purity and hope, yet the overall tone remains one of quiet acceptance of life's inevitable changes. The final verses, with the mention of 'oncoming autumn' and 'a life so long,' suggest a contemplation of mortality and the passage of time, ultimately leading to a sense of fading and acceptance.

'September Again' captures the essence of seasonal melancholy and the introspective journey that often accompanies it, blending poignant imagery with a reflective narrative to explore themes of change, loss, and self-discovery.