Meaning of "Blizzard of '77" by Nada Surf

The lyrics of "Blizzard of '77" can be interpreted as a reflection on the ups and downs of life, as well as the internal struggles and anxieties that come with it. The blizzard and the cars being covered in snow represent the challenges and obstacles that can obscure our progress and create a sense of helplessness. This feeling is further emphasized by the shelves in the 7-11 stretching out of control, symbolizing a loss of stability and control. The plane ride, with its turbulent shaking, becomes a metaphor for how fear and uncertainty can make it difficult to hold onto things and let go of worries. The mention of signals getting mixed up and constantly doing damage control suggests that the singer is constantly trying to navigate through life and fix the problems that arise.

The line "I have got a negative edge" reveals a sense of self-awareness about the singer's personal struggles and flaws. The act of sharpening all the others, whether they are flower petals or ladybugs, implies an attempt to compensate for this negativity by focusing on the beauty and positivity in others. However, there is a sense of longing and missing someone deeply, which adds a layer of emotional vulnerability to the song. The repetition of "I miss you more than I knew" suggests that the true depth of this feeling is only fully realized in retrospect.

Overall, "Blizzard of '77" portrays the complexities of human emotions and the constant struggle to find balance and meaning in a world filled with uncertainty and hardship. It explores themes of isolation, self-reflection, self-improvement, and longing for connection.