Autumn Leaves

 

Themes

In Autumn leaves the use of seasons shows the narrative development and a change throughout time. The meaning of the title is twofold. On the one hand it means that autumn goes away or passes by. On the other hand, it calls out to the leaves of autumn which fall to the ground.

The song is about falling down and picking oneself up again. It’s a coming-of-age song where the Lyrical I feels lost and does not know how to go on nor what to do next. They fear the future and feel lost in the present. This is underlined when the Lyrical I calls out for their mother asking for help.

The meaning mother is twofold again. On the one hand it represents the actual birthmother and on the other hand it represents nature. Thus the Lyrical I is also calling out to nature to show them the way.

In the end of the second vers the Lyrical I admits that they feel lost but they can see and reflect on the fact that they are missing something which in itself is a good thing. The Lyrical I realises that the only way to push on is letting go of the past.

Lyrics

Autumn leaves don’t fall down

Winter please, stay far in the background

Autumn leaves don’t fall to the ground

I know that I won’t sleep safe and sound

Summer leaves, I’ve fallen to the ground

Once again, my soul pierces sound

And my soul is lost at sea

I can’t swim through these summer leaves

 

Autumn leaves please bless my soul

I’m lost in the snow

Autumn leaves please bless my soul

I’m lost in the snow

 

Winter last was white in snow

All I know is you’ve lost what I have found

Mother please, I’m lost at sea

I can’t swim but I … I can see

 

Autumn leaves please bless my soul

I’m lost in the snow

Autumn leaves please bless my soul

I’m lost in the snow

 

I’m lost in the snow

My soul has lost the snow

I’ve got to let go

I’ve got to let go