Weird Goodbyes (feat. Bon Iver)

The National's song 'Weird Goodbyes,' featuring Bon Iver, delves into the complex emotions surrounding farewells and the lingering impact of memories. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the small, seemingly insignificant details that become monumental when looking back on a relationship or a significant period in one's life. Lines like 'Memorize the bathwater, memorize the air' and 'Names on the door frames, inches and ages' emphasize the importance of these minute details, suggesting that they are the anchors to our past, grounding us in moments that we may otherwise forget.

The song also explores the struggle of moving forward while being weighed down by the past. The repeated line 'I don't know why I don't try harder' reflects a sense of regret and self-doubt, as the narrator grapples with the effort required to let go and move on. The imagery of 'throwin' towels into water' and 'goin' down some strange water' evokes a sense of surrender and confusion, highlighting the emotional turmoil that accompanies significant life changes.

As the song progresses, the narrator's journey becomes more introspective. The lines 'The grief it gets me, the weird goodbyes' and 'My car is creepin', I think it's dyin'' symbolize the slow, painful process of coming to terms with loss. The car, a metaphor for the narrator's emotional state, 'creeps' and 'dies,' mirroring the struggle to keep moving forward. The setting of 'lemon fields' adds a layer of surrealism, suggesting a place of both beauty and bitterness, much like the experience of saying goodbye. Ultimately, 'Weird Goodbyes' captures the essence of human vulnerability and the intricate dance between holding on and letting go.