Constellations

The Oh Hellos' song 'Constellations' is a poetic exploration of human intentions, perceptions, and the inevitable changes that come with time. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, drawing parallels between the vastness of the night sky and the complexities of human experience. The song opens with a vivid description of building walls and drawing lines, symbolizing the boundaries and divisions we create in our lives. These barriers, described as 'brick and mortar' and 'thick as scripture,' suggest a sense of permanence and rigidity, yet the singer acknowledges their own voice fading, hinting at the futility of these efforts.

The recurring motif of constellations serves as a powerful metaphor for the way we seek patterns and meaning in the chaos of life. Just as constellations are human-made interpretations of star patterns, our 'good intentions' and efforts to make sense of the world are subjective and often fleeting. The lyrics 'every good intention is interpolation, a line we drew in the array' emphasize this idea, suggesting that our attempts to impose order and meaning are ultimately arbitrary and temporary.

As the song progresses, the imagery shifts to the instability and transformation inherent in life. The mention of tectonic plates shaking and blood pounding like a drum conveys a sense of impending change and upheaval. The final lines, 'everything you thought you knew will fall apart, but you'll be all right,' offer a message of resilience and hope. Despite the inevitable changes and the collapse of our constructed realities, there is a reassurance that we can adapt and find peace in the midst of uncertainty.