Meaning of "St. Cecilia's" by Animal Flag

The lyrics of "St. Cecilia's" delve into the emotional turmoil of a person who has been deeply affected by a past relationship. The reference to St. Cecilia implies a sense of seeking solace and redemption from distress. The line "It's holy water if you can say that the chemical reactions you've been causing can qualify me as a saint" suggests that the pain and suffering caused by the other person's actions almost elevate the narrator to a saintly status. They have endured so much that they feel like a martyr.

Despite their attempts to be brave and move on, the narrator is haunted by the presence of the other person. Every time they try to move forward and find spiritual grounding ("meet my maker"), they are constantly reminded of their face. This indicates that the emotional impact of the past relationship still lingers and affects their spiritual well-being. It is a constant struggle for them to find peace and move on.

The narrator expresses hope that things will not end badly and apologizes for what they are about to say. This reflects their desire to find a resolution that is less painful for both parties involved. However, there is an undercurrent of doubt, as they state that the other person will not find another love like theirs. This suggests a longing for the relationship to be repaired, or perhaps a fear of losing something unique and irreplaceable.

The lyrics also touch on the concept of learning from others' experiences. The narrator mentions overhearing conversations where people complain about the rain. They have chosen to embrace the stormy weather and hazy conditions as something beyond their control, paralleling their failed relationship. It is a way for them to accept that some things cannot be changed or fixed. By listening to prophets and the broken-hearted, the narrator seeks to gain wisdom and knowledge that will help them navigate their own heartache.

The repeated lesson that "don't ever trust a heart you can't break" reveals a newfound understanding of vulnerability. It suggests that the narrator has learned the importance of being able to break someone's heart, as it signifies a deeper emotional connection and the potential for growth. They are cautioning against getting involved with someone who is emotionally closed off or incapable of reciprocating vulnerable feelings. It is a lesson that they have internalized and carry with them as they navigate future relationships.

In the end, the lyrics express hope that both parties can see things differently and learn to love the rain. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for accepting the unpredictable and uncontrollable aspects of life, including the pain and heartbreak that comes with relationships. It is an invitation for growth, resilience, and finding beauty in the midst of challenging circumstances.