White Winter Hymnal

Pentatonix's rendition of 'White Winter Hymnal' is a hauntingly beautiful song that captures the essence of nostalgia and the passage of time. The lyrics, originally written by Fleet Foxes, are rich with imagery and metaphor, painting a vivid picture of a winter scene. The repetition of 'I was following the' creates a sense of movement and continuity, as if the narrator is caught in a cycle or a memory loop. This repetition also emphasizes the act of following, suggesting themes of conformity and the loss of individuality.

The imagery of 'scarves of red tied round their throats' and 'turn the white snow red as strawberries in the summertime' is particularly striking. The red scarves can be seen as a symbol of warmth and protection, but also hint at vulnerability and danger. The transformation of white snow to red evokes a sense of violence or loss, contrasting the purity of winter with the vividness of summer. This juxtaposition of seasons and colors highlights the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of change.

The mention of 'Michael' adds a personal touch to the song, making it feel like a specific memory or event. The fall of Michael and the subsequent turning of snow to red can be interpreted as a metaphor for a tragic event or a loss of innocence. The song's cyclical structure, with its repeated verses, mirrors the way memories can replay in our minds, sometimes haunting us with their beauty and sadness. Pentatonix's harmonious arrangement enhances the ethereal quality of the song, making it a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the bittersweet nature of memories.