Changes

Slowdive's 'Changes' is a haunting exploration of identity, memory, and the passage of time. The lyrics are sparse and repetitive, creating a hypnotic effect that mirrors the themes of the song. The opening lines, 'In the soul, play / In the wall, hide,' suggest a duality between the inner self and the external world. This duality is further emphasized by the recurring motif of hiding and playing, which can be interpreted as the ways we navigate our identities and memories.

The phrase 'It's a game that I still play' is repeated multiple times, underscoring the idea that the process of understanding oneself and one's past is ongoing and cyclical. The use of the word 'game' implies a sense of playfulness but also a certain level of complexity and strategy. This could be a metaphor for the intricate ways we interact with our memories and the personas we adopt over time. The repetition of this line also creates a sense of inevitability, as if the speaker is trapped in this endless loop of self-exploration.

The imagery of 'long shadow' and 'form' adds another layer to the song's meaning. Shadows are often associated with the past and things that are hidden or not fully understood. The 'long shadow' could represent the lingering impact of past experiences on the present self. The 'form' that hides and changes could symbolize the fluid nature of identity, constantly shifting and evolving. Slowdive's ethereal musical style, characterized by lush soundscapes and dreamy vocals, perfectly complements the introspective and somewhat melancholic tone of the lyrics, making 'Changes' a deeply resonant piece about the complexities of self and memory.