This December

Ricky Montgomery's 'This December' is a poignant reflection on personal growth and the feeling of isolation that can accompany it. The song's lyrics suggest a journey through self-awareness, particularly in times of hardship. The recurring line 'Only in my darkest moments can I see the light' implies that the speaker gains clarity and insight when facing challenges. The mention of being 'prone to getting blinded when it's bright' further emphasizes the idea that comfort and ease can sometimes obscure important truths or lessons that only adversity can reveal.

The chorus, 'I'm alright if you're alright / And I'm okay if you're okay,' speaks to the interconnectedness of our well-being with that of others. It suggests a dependency on the emotional state of someone else, possibly a loved one, for the speaker's own peace of mind. The phrase 'It's just a little bit lonely in this home' conveys a sense of solitude that the speaker feels, highlighting the emotional coldness that can come from being alone. The repetition of 'It's always colder on your own' reinforces this sentiment, painting a picture of the isolation that winter—and by extension, difficult times—can bring.

The song's title, 'This December,' and the repeated references to the month symbolize the end of a year and the anticipation of renewal that comes with the approaching new year. The line 'I let the seasons change my mind' suggests adaptability and the acceptance of change as a natural part of life. The imagery of 'another white elm growing at the end of town' could represent new beginnings or growth that comes from personal introspection and change. Overall, Montgomery's song captures the melancholic beauty of self-discovery and the bittersweet nature of growth that often requires solitude and the passage of time.