Lifted Up (1985)

Passion Pit's 'Lifted Up (1985)' is a nostalgic yet hopeful anthem that delves into themes of longing, perseverance, and the transformative power of love. The song's lyrics reflect a yearning for a past time, specifically the year 1985, which is portrayed as a pivotal moment of joy and revelation. The repeated mention of this year suggests a significant personal event for the narrator, possibly a moment when they felt truly alive or connected to someone special.

The song opens with a sense of weariness and waiting, as the narrator questions how long it takes to let go and how many years one must wait for change. This sets the stage for a narrative of enduring hardship and the passage of time. The imagery of clouds combining and flickering lights turning into flames evokes a sense of anticipation and the buildup of emotions. Despite the fatigue and the long wait, there is a glimmer of hope as the narrator decides to stay 'til the gates open, symbolizing a breakthrough or a new beginning.

The chorus brings a shift in tone, celebrating the year 1985 as a 'good year' when the sky broke apart and a significant other appeared. This person is described as coming 'out from the heavens,' highlighting their almost divine impact on the narrator's life. The act of lifting off the ground and pulling this person down suggests a grounding, a bringing of dreams into reality. The song's refrain of being 'lifted up' speaks to the uplifting and elevating effect this relationship has had, providing a sense of purpose and joy amidst the struggles.

Throughout the song, there is a juxtaposition of past and present, with the narrator reflecting on wasted days and the clash of rain and thunder, yet finding solace in the memory of 1985. The song ultimately conveys a message of resilience and the enduring power of love to lift us up, even when we feel weighed down by life's challenges.