Where We Start

Vance Joy's song "Where We Start" is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the journey of finding oneself amidst the chaos of life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that once provided shelter and protection, much like tall trees shielding from a storm. The metaphor of the tree is central to the song, symbolizing strength, stability, and the sense of security that love can offer. However, just as big trees can fall, so too can relationships, leaving a significant void in one's life.

The song delves into the complexities of love, highlighting the difficulty of letting oneself be vulnerable. The line "It's easier to take a heart than let your own be taken" speaks to the fear of emotional exposure and the pain that can come with it. Despite the challenges, there is a sense of longing and nostalgia for the simpler times, as expressed in the chorus where the singer yearns to be taken back "down to where we start." This desire to return to the beginning suggests a wish to recapture the innocence and purity of the initial stages of love.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of falling and the fear associated with it. The imagery of big trees falling and the sound of them cracking like lightning underscores the sudden and impactful nature of loss. Yet, there is also a glimmer of hope, as the singer believes that with the presence of their loved one, the fall won't be as long or as hard. This duality of fear and hope encapsulates the emotional rollercoaster that comes with deep connections and the inevitable changes they bring.