Woodland
The Paper Kites
Chasing the Sun: The Eternal Quest for Youth and Meaning in 'Woodland'
The Paper Kites' song 'Woodland' is a poetic exploration of the human journey, filled with metaphors and imagery that evoke a sense of adventure and the relentless pursuit of something greater. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of running through the woods, symbolizing the trials and tribulations of life. The 'beast' that 'won't stop till we're dead' represents the inevitable challenges and fears that we all face, urging us to keep moving forward despite the scrapes and bruises we accumulate along the way.
The recurring theme of 'autumn days' and the act of 'building a home with the mud and the stones' suggests a connection to nature and the simplicity of life. It reflects a longing for a return to basics, a search for something pure and untainted. This imagery is contrasted with the idea of 'chasing all the things that are keeping us young,' highlighting the tension between the desire for youthful exuberance and the wisdom that comes with age. The sun, a powerful symbol of life and energy, becomes the ultimate goal, representing enlightenment, fulfillment, and the essence of life itself.
The chorus, with its repetitive 'won't stop running till we reach the sun,' emphasizes the relentless pursuit of dreams and aspirations. It speaks to the universal human experience of striving for something just out of reach, a quest that keeps us moving forward. The song's closing lines, 'All those scrapes on our knees will tell you where we've been, where we have bled,' serve as a poignant reminder of the scars we bear from our journeys, each one a testament to our resilience and determination. 'Woodland' is a beautiful ode to the human spirit, capturing the essence of our perpetual search for meaning and the unyielding drive to achieve our dreams.