Angela

The Lumineers' song 'Angela' is a poignant narrative that explores themes of escape, self-discovery, and the search for a place to call home. The lyrics tell the story of Angela, a character who leaves her town in search of something more, with the 'wilderness' inside her driving the journey. The imagery of driving with windows down and letting the 'exits pass' suggests a desire to break free from the constraints of her past and the expectations of those around her. The song captures the essence of a person's struggle to find their own path while dealing with the pressures of society that often tries to 'raise you up just to cut you down.'

The chorus, 'Oh Angela, it's a long time coming,' implies a long-awaited change or realization that has been building up over time. The mention of 'your Volvo lights lit up green and white' could symbolize hope and peace, indicating that Angela is on the right track despite the 'distant war' in her mind. This internal conflict might represent the challenges and doubts one faces when pursuing their true self. The Lumineers often weave folk storytelling with indie music, and in 'Angela,' they create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that many listeners can relate to.

The song concludes with a repeated 'Home at last,' which can be interpreted in several ways. It could mean that Angela has finally found a physical place where she feels at peace, or it could signify an internal homecoming to a state of self-acceptance and understanding. The final verses, 'Vacancy, hotel room, lost in me, lost in you / Angela, on my knees, I belong, I believe,' suggest a moment of profound personal revelation and the acceptance of one's journey, with all its trials and tribulations, as an integral part of who they are.