Meaning of "Ether & Wood" by Alela Diane

The lyrics of "Ether & Wood" by Alela Diane delve into themes of nostalgia, loss, and rebirth. The narrator's dream serves as a metaphor for the passage of time and the ephemeral nature of life. Falling asleep on the hardwood floor signifies a moment of introspection and reflection, with the pale blue sky and the song of an old friend evoking a sense of longing for the past. The line "I don't live any more" suggests a detachment from their former life, perhaps due to the passage of time or personal growth.

As the narrator walks through the house they once built, the cracks in the ivory paint and the vines strangling the flowers symbolize the decay and erosion of memories. The physical deterioration mirrors the emotional detachment from the past. This introspection is juxtaposed with the arrival of a child's spirit, representing hope and new beginnings. The child's presence is a reminder that life is ever-changing, and the experience of loss is not permanent. The narrator's observation of the child's dark eyes and tears suggests a connection to their own emotional state, highlighting the fragile nature of existence and the profound impact of life's experiences.

Overall, "Ether & Wood" captures the bittersweet essence of reminiscing about the past, recognizing the impermanence of life, and finding solace in the potential for rebirth and growth.