Since I Saw Vienna

Wilbur Soot's song "Since I Saw Vienna" delves into the life of a wanderer, exploring themes of identity, memory, and the transient nature of existence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who has chosen a nomadic lifestyle, collecting memories and experiences rather than material possessions. The opening lines contrast the singer's khaki coat, a symbol of his transient life, with the more stable and rooted life of another person, represented by their bomber jacket adorned with patches from places they've visited. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of what it means to live a life constantly on the move.

The song's protagonist describes their belongings as minimal and often discarded, emphasizing a life unanchored by material wealth or stability. This ascetic lifestyle is a conscious choice, a way to cope with the memories of a past relationship. The line "Treating my memory of you like a fire, let it burn out, don't fight it, and try to move on" suggests a struggle to let go of the past while using constant movement as a means of distraction and healing. The roads and horizons become metaphors for the endless possibilities and the perpetual search for meaning and closure.

The refrain, "It's been sixty weeks since I saw Vienna," serves as a poignant reminder of a specific moment in time that holds significant emotional weight. Vienna symbolizes a place of emotional attachment, a point of reference in the wanderer's journey. The mention of picking up hiking boots when ready and putting down roots only in death underscores the idea that true stability and peace may only be found in the end. The song captures the essence of a restless soul, forever in motion, grappling with the ghosts of the past while searching for a sense of belonging and identity.