Meaning of "January" by Disclosure

The lyrics of "January" delve into the complexities of memory and its significance in relationships. The song opens with the narrator expressing their uncertainty about what they should expect from their current situation. They acknowledge that they are there of their own free will, suggesting that they have chosen to be in this predicament. The line "Fortune favors the brave, so they say" implies that they are willing to take chances and confront the unknown.
The narrator then discusses how they are willing to participate in the other person's game, hinting at a power dynamic within the relationship. They believe that holding onto the memory of their time together is essential, as it justifies their past actions and feelings. However, they question the authenticity of the experience, wondering if it was genuine or manufactured. This uncertainty raises the idea that the other person may have been pretending or lying throughout their relationship, allowing them to avoid facing the truth and never having to say goodbye.
The chorus emphasizes the importance of memory and the narrator's commitment to preserving it. They suggest that if the other person cannot remember, they will protect the memory themselves. The mention of "22nd January" acts as a specific date, representing a significant moment or event in their relationship. This date serves as a symbol of a particular memory that the narrator refuses to forget.
In the second verse, the narrator questions whether their past experiences were as meaningful for the other person as they were for themselves. They inquire if looking back on those moments brings the other person any emotional response. They also propose the possibility that they have changed and grown while the other person has remained the same, highlighting the potential for imbalance and stagnation in the relationship.
The bridge of the song introduces the idea of suspension of disbelief and putting faith in the other person's relief. This could be interpreted as the narrator finding solace in the other person's ability to forget or deceive themselves, as it brings them some form of relief. However, it also implies a level of desperation in holding onto the memory and believing in its significance.
Overall, "January" explores the complexities of memory and its role in relationships. It raises questions about the authenticity of past experiences and the impact of selective forgetting. It also highlights the desire to hold onto significant memories, even if they are no longer shared or remembered by the other person.