We Let The Stars Go
Prefab Sprout
Nostalgia and Regret in 'We Let The Stars Go'
Prefab Sprout's song 'We Let The Stars Go' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, regret, and the passage of time. The lyrics tell the story of a man reminiscing about a past relationship with a girl who used to tease him about his name, Paddy Joe. The song captures the bittersweet nature of these memories, as the protagonist reflects on the fleeting moments of joy and connection that have since faded into the past. The repeated refrain, 'We let the stars go,' serves as a metaphor for letting go of something beautiful and precious, perhaps too easily or too soon.
The song's narrative is rich with emotional depth, as the protagonist grapples with the realization that the boy he used to be was 'cold' and that he would now be 'cheaply sold.' This self-reflection highlights a sense of regret and a longing for what might have been if he had been more open and warm. The imagery of the 'light is gone and it is dark' and the sky being 'embarrassing to the naked eye' further emphasizes the loss and the stark contrast between the past and the present.
The soothing voice of distance mentioned in the lyrics suggests that time has provided some comfort, but the memories still linger, haunting the protagonist. The song's melancholic tone is underscored by the repetition of the girl's voice asking, 'Don't you remember me?' This question echoes the universal human experience of looking back on past relationships and wondering how things might have turned out differently. 'We Let The Stars Go' is a beautifully crafted song that captures the essence of lost love and the enduring impact of our past choices.