Edge Of Seventeen
Stevie Nicks
The Poignant Journey of Growth in 'Edge Of Seventeen'
Stevie Nicks' 'Edge Of Seventeen' is a powerful song that delves into the themes of loss, transition, and the passage of time. The song's title itself is a metaphor for a pivotal point in life, the cusp of adulthood, where innocence begins to give way to the complexities of the adult world. The white-winged dove, which features prominently in the lyrics, symbolizes peace and purity, and its song represents a call to a higher understanding or consciousness.
The lyrics 'And the days go by, like a strand in the wind, in the web that is my own, I begin again' suggest a personal journey of introspection and renewal. Nicks reflects on the transient nature of life, comparing days to strands in the wind, fragile and fleeting. The song also touches on the theme of unchanging nature amidst change, as seen in the lines 'But the sea changes colours, but the sea does not change,' implying that while appearances may shift, the essence remains constant.
The emotional climax of the song comes with the imagery of searching for answers and the call of the nightbird, which could be interpreted as a search for meaning or a longing for connection. The song's conclusion, where Nicks acknowledges the age difference between herself and the subject of the song, adds a layer of personal reflection on growth and the wisdom that comes with age. Overall, 'Edge Of Seventeen' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of life's transitions and the search for self amidst the ever-changing tides of time.