5.17

Thom Yorke's song "5.17" is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of love, regret, and the lingering presence of someone who has left a profound impact. The song opens with references to flowers, each symbolizing different emotions. Amaryllis, representing beauty, and calla lilies, symbolizing magnificence, set a tone of admiration and reverence. These floral metaphors are a poetic way to express the depth of feelings the narrator holds for the person they are addressing.

The recurring line, "I will light a blue lantern for you," suggests a beacon of hope or remembrance. The blue lantern could symbolize a guiding light in the darkness, a way to keep the memory of the person alive. The repetition of "for you" emphasizes the dedication and the emotional weight carried by the narrator. The shapes made by the lantern's light could represent the memories and moments shared, casting shadows that linger in the narrator's mind.

The mention of violets, which are often associated with apologies, introduces a theme of regret. The line, "Somewhere left on a highway, leaving most of me hanging with you," evokes a sense of abandonment and unfinished business. It suggests that a part of the narrator remains with the person they are singing about, unable to move on completely. This imagery of being left on a highway conveys a feeling of being stranded, caught between the past and the present.

Thom Yorke, known for his introspective and often melancholic musical style, uses these vivid metaphors and emotional imagery to create a poignant narrative. The song captures the complexity of human emotions, blending beauty with sorrow, and hope with regret, making it a deeply resonant piece for listeners.