Au Revoir
OneRepublic
Navigating Change and Uncertainty in 'Au Revoir' by OneRepublic
OneRepublic's song 'Au Revoir' delves into the themes of change, uncertainty, and the transient nature of life. The lyrics open with a sense of disorientation and identity crisis, as the narrator admits, 'Today I’m not myself / And you, you’re someone else.' This sets the stage for a journey through a peculiar state of existence where nothing is as it seems, and everything is subject to change. The mention of wounds that 'don’t fake' and stars that 'can quit' further emphasizes the raw and unpredictable nature of their current reality.
The chorus introduces the idea of life as a game, where the lives we meet and the experiences we have can change. This metaphor suggests that life is full of possibilities and uncertainties, and it’s up to us to navigate through them. The imagery of finding pieces to puzzles and slipping out under locks conveys a sense of discovery and breaking free from constraints. The reference to 'check mate' implies strategic thinking and the importance of making the right moves in life.
The repetition of the lines about taking apart the life they’re building and packing it up inside a box highlights the transient and impermanent nature of their current situation. It suggests that what truly matters is the present moment and the actions they take right now. This focus on the present moment is a reminder to live in the now and embrace the changes and uncertainties that come with it. OneRepublic's 'Au Revoir' is a poignant reflection on the fluidity of life and the importance of adaptability and presence in the face of change.