Meaning of "Last Year" by Alt-J

"Last Year" intertwines personal experiences and emotions with the passing of time. Each month represents a different phase or event in the narrator's life, as they navigate through various highs and lows. The lyrics convey a sense of detachment and introspection, with the speaker observing their own existence from a distance.

The opening lines set the tone, starting with the loss of the narrator's heart in January. This loss could symbolize the end of a relationship or a general feeling of emptiness. As the months progress, the narrator describes their emotional state, ranging from indifference in April to learning and growth in June. In July, the contrast between wiping away their own skin and visiting family suggests a struggle between self-destruction and seeking support.

The arrival of Augustus brings relief in the form of medication, specifically diazepam, which stabilizes the narrator's emotions. However, the reference to "life floats away" indicates a sense of detachment or numbness that accompanies this stabilization. The return in October for the narrator's birthday hints at a desire for connection or celebration, but the mention of a firework display in a cafeteria of their old school suggests a lack of fulfillment or disappointment.

The song takes a somber turn in December, as the narrator sings of their own funeral. This could represent a metaphorical death or a reflection on mortality. The repetition of the word "Mississippi" throughout the song creates a haunting refrain, evoking a longing for something lost or a desire to escape from the cold, black sleep that seems to pervade the narrator's existence.

Overall, "Last Year" explores themes of loneliness, personal growth, and the passage of time. It captures the complex emotions and experiences that shape our lives, from loss and detachment to seeking solace and connection. The poignant repetition of "Mississippi" adds a layer of longing and nostalgia to the lyrics, leaving the listener with a sense of melancholy and introspection.