Comin' On Strong

Oasis' song 'Comin' On Strong' delves into the complex interplay between youthful energy and the wisdom of experience. The opening lines, 'You're the devil in me that I brought in from the cold / Your body's still young and your mind is very old,' set the stage for this exploration. The 'devil' metaphor suggests an internal struggle or a darker aspect of the self that has been repressed or ignored. This duality is further emphasized by the contrast between a young body and an old mind, hinting at a person who has lived through significant experiences despite their youthful appearance.

The recurring phrase 'You're comin' on strong' can be interpreted as a recognition of someone's powerful influence or presence. This influence is both appealing and overwhelming, as indicated by the line 'I like the way.' However, the visions they once shared are 'just fading away,' suggesting a sense of loss or disillusionment. The song reflects on missed opportunities and unfulfilled dreams, encapsulated in the lines 'You're part of the life that I never had / You said that man it's just too bad.' This sentiment is echoed in the desire for a life that is tangible and meaningful: 'I want the whole of my life / To be something that I can see / To be something that I can be.'

The song also touches on themes of nostalgia and longing. The mention of animals and the changing seasons ('I see the animals and ask when the summer starts to fall') evokes a sense of time passing and the inevitable changes that come with it. The happiness 'banging down the hall' could symbolize fleeting moments of joy that are just out of reach. The repeated assertion that 'she said she'd return and it won't be long' adds a layer of hope and anticipation, even as it acknowledges the transient nature of these feelings. Overall, 'Comin' On Strong' is a poignant reflection on the complexities of life, the passage of time, and the interplay between youthful vigor and the weight of experience.