Meaning of "Forest Fire" by Mount Eerie

The song "Forest Fire" by Mount Eerie explores themes of loss, grief, and the overwhelming sense of devastation that comes with the absence of a loved one. The lyrics paint a picture of a person trying to navigate their life without the person they have lost. The changing seasons, particularly the transition from summer to fall, become symbolic markers of time passing without the presence of the loved one. It is a reminder that life continues moving forward, but the absence remains.

The mention of the forest fire adds an additional layer of meaning. Forest fires are often seen as natural occurrences, a way for nature to cleanse and reset. However, the person rejects this idea, asserting that the devastation caused by the fire is not natural or good. This rejection reflects their refusal to accept the loss and the pain it brings. There is a yearning for their loved one to still be a part of their life, the sentiment expressed when saying, "You do belong here." The devastation they feel is personal and deeply rooted in their grief.

The reference to the hazy light of the forest fire smoke and the view of the refineries further highlights the sense of constant ending and destruction in the world. The presence of these industrial elements juxtaposed with the natural disaster creates a feeling of chaos and hopelessness. The person longs for their loved one, reminiscing about the rain and how it represented their presence. The heat becomes a metaphor for their shared experiences, and opening the window on their loved one's last morning is a way to allow them to "ghost away" and find peace.

As the lyrics continue, the person acknowledges their struggle to keep up with time and the weight of their grief. The leaf on the ground becomes a symbol of their slumbering grief, poking at them as a reminder of their pain. However, there is a gradual reassertion of sovereignty, perhaps a sign that the person is slowly regaining control over their emotions. This struggle is accompanied by feelings of betrayal and a questioning of how to move forward and live without their loved one.

In essence, "Forest Fire" delves into the complexities of grief and the profound impact it has on an individual's life. It explores the struggle to accept the passage of time and find a way to move forward while still honoring and holding onto the memories of the person who is no longer present.