Start This Over

The Rare Occasions' song 'Start This Over' delves into the deep emotional turmoil that follows a breakup. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the aftermath of a relationship that has ended, leaving them in a state of regret and longing. The imagery of winter and snow piling on the ground symbolizes the cold and desolate feelings that accompany the absence of a loved one. The protagonist is left pacing through the dark, metaphorically representing their aimless and troubled state of mind as they try to make sense of how things fell apart.

The recurring theme of wishing to 'start this over' highlights the protagonist's desire to go back in time and correct their mistakes. They reflect on the things they should have said and the actions they should have taken, feeling like a different person now compared to the day their partner left. This sense of transformation suggests that the experience has profoundly changed them, but unfortunately, this realization comes too late. The lyrics also evoke a sense of nostalgia, recalling moments of closeness and intimacy, such as when their partner's head was on their shoulder, which contrasts sharply with the current reality of an empty apartment and junk on the curbside.

The song captures the universal feeling of regret and the longing for a second chance to make things right. It speaks to the human experience of learning from our mistakes, often when it's too late to change the outcome. The emotional weight of the song is amplified by the repetitive questioning of how the relationship deteriorated, emphasizing the protagonist's confusion and sorrow. 'Start This Over' is a poignant reminder of the fragility of relationships and the importance of communication and presence in maintaining them.