Weightless Again

The Handsome Family's song "Weightless Again" is a haunting exploration of human fragility, the search for meaning, and the desire to escape the burdens of life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple's journey through a redwood forest, juxtaposed with historical and cultural references that deepen the song's emotional impact. The imagery of giant dripping leaves and spoons of powdered cream sets a melancholic tone, reflecting the weight of unspoken emotions and the complexity of human connections.

The song delves into the theme of lost knowledge and forgotten skills, symbolized by the Indians who had to drag burning wood because they had forgotten how to start a fire. This metaphor extends to the modern human condition, where people often feel lost and disconnected, seeking ways to feel 'weightless' again. The reference to overdosing on pills and jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge underscores the extreme measures some take to escape their emotional burdens, highlighting the pervasive sense of despair and the longing for relief.

In the motel room scene, the couple's mundane activities—drinking gin, reading Moby Dick—contrast sharply with the profound memories of their first intimate moments. The recollection of learning to float serves as a poignant metaphor for the fleeting moments of weightlessness and freedom that people yearn for. The song's recurring refrain emphasizes the lengths to which individuals will go to recapture that sense of lightness, making "Weightless Again" a powerful commentary on the human condition and the eternal quest for emotional liberation.