Meaning of "That Year" by Brandi Carlile

The lyrics of "That Year" by Brandi Carlile touch on themes of forgiveness, growth, and the passage of time. The narrator reflects on a past year in high school, describing their rebellious attitude and the sense of detachment they felt from a particular person. It is implied that something happened that caused a rift between them and this person, leading to hurtful feelings and estrangement for ten years. However, the narrator comes to realize that holding onto anger and hatred is not healthy, and a sense of maturity and forgiveness takes hold. They mention that "he," possibly a significant other, forgave this person before the narrator could, highlighting the growth and character development of both individuals. The lyrics suggest that time and distance have allowed the narrator to see past the hurt and rekindle a friendship with this person. By expressing that they were angry, a Baptist, and wrong, the narrator acknowledges their own faults and the need for introspection. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of personal growth, the healing power of forgiveness, and the importance of maintaining friendships.