Retrograde

Pearl Jam's song 'Retrograde' delves into the tumultuous nature of life and the cyclical patterns that often seem to govern our experiences. The lyrics open with vivid imagery of a summer storm, symbolizing the unpredictable and often chaotic forces that shape our lives. The mention of 'lightning and far off thunder' sets a tone of anticipation and reflection, suggesting that these natural phenomena are metaphors for the challenges and upheavals we face. The idea of 'meditations, lifting out in the sound' implies a search for peace and understanding amidst the noise and confusion.

The song's chorus emphasizes the concept of retrograde motion, a term often used in astrology to describe the apparent backward movement of planets. This retrograde motion is metaphorically linked to the feeling of being stuck or moving in circles, unable to progress. The lyrics 'Stars align they say when things are better than right now' reflect a sense of hope and the belief that better times are ahead, even if the present feels overwhelming. The 'seven seas raising' and 'forever futures fading out' evoke a sense of urgency and the need to adapt to changing circumstances.

Pearl Jam also touches on the theme of resilience and the need for extraordinary love and effort to overcome adversity. The lines 'The more mistakes, the more resolve' and 'It's gonna take much more than ordinary love to lift this up' highlight the importance of perseverance and deep, transformative love in navigating life's challenges. The repeated phrase 'Hear the sound' towards the end of the song serves as a call to remain aware and attuned to the world around us, whether it's the sound of thunder or the collective voice of a crowd, symbolizing both natural and social forces at play.