Winter

Tori Amos's song 'Winter' is a poignant exploration of personal growth, self-acceptance, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young girl interacting with her father, who imparts wisdom and encouragement. The imagery of winter, with its snow and cold, serves as a metaphor for the challenges and introspective moments in life. The recurring theme of forgetting mittens and putting on new boots symbolizes the small but significant steps we take in our journey toward self-discovery and resilience.

The father figure in the song represents a guiding force, urging the protagonist to stand up for herself and to love herself as much as he does. This advice is both tender and urgent, reflecting the inevitable changes that life brings. The line 'All the white horses are still in bed' suggests a sense of missed opportunities or dreams that have yet to be realized. The father's voice is a constant reminder that time is fleeting and that self-acceptance is crucial for navigating life's rapid changes.

As the song progresses, the protagonist reflects on the passage of time and the changes it brings. The imagery of 'flowers competing for the sun' and 'withering where some snowman was' evokes the natural cycle of growth and decay. The mention of 'hair is grey and the fires are burning' signifies aging and the accumulation of unfulfilled dreams. Despite these changes, the father's love and support remain a constant, even as he acknowledges that things inevitably change. The song concludes with a bittersweet acceptance of this reality, encapsulated in the repeated refrain 'Never change,' which underscores the enduring nature of love and the inevitability of change.