Once Upon a Poolside (feat. Sufjan Stevens)

The National's song 'Once Upon a Poolside (feat. Sufjan Stevens)' is a poignant exploration of emotional turbulence and the complexities of human connection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a moment fraught with tension and uncertainty, set against the backdrop of a poolside scene. The recurring line, 'What was the worried thing you said to me?' suggests a lingering concern or unresolved issue that haunts the narrator, highlighting the fragility of their emotional state.

The song delves into themes of distance and forgiveness, as the narrator tries to navigate their feelings while maintaining a semblance of composure. The imagery of 'teenagers on ice' and 'tangerine perfume' evokes a sense of fleeting youth and ephemeral moments, underscoring the transient nature of their experiences. The mention of 'watching airplanes land and sink into the pavement' serves as a metaphor for the weight of their emotions, grounding them in a reality that feels both heavy and inescapable.

As the song progresses, the narrator's internal struggle becomes more apparent. Lines like 'I can't keep talking, I can't stop shaking' and 'Everything is different, why do I feel the same?' reveal a deep sense of disorientation and vulnerability. The repeated assertion, 'This is the closest we've ever been,' juxtaposed with the uncertainty of 'Is this how this whole thing is gonna end?' captures the paradox of intimacy and the fear of impending loss. Ultimately, 'Once Upon a Poolside' is a haunting reflection on the challenges of maintaining connection amidst personal turmoil, leaving listeners with a profound sense of empathy and introspection.