The lyrics of "Woes" by Tom Rosenthal describe a bittersweet experience where the narrator questions the value of their actions and the fleeting nature of happiness. They reference a beautiful view, blooming roses, and pollen in the air, suggesting an initial sense of enjoyment or accomplishment. However, the repetition of "It all comes and goes" and "All these woes" implies that happiness is temporary and overshadowed by hardships. The mention of three daisies in a notebook symbolizes fragile beauty and the inevitability of loss. Overall, the lyrics convey a contemplation on the transient nature of life's ups and downs.

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Meaning of "Woes" by Tom Rosenthal


"Woes" by Tom Rosenthal is a song that tackles the transience of happiness and the ephemerality of life's joys. The first verse presents the concept of a viewpoint that initially appears to be worth it, offering a beautiful panorama and blooming roses. The mention of pollen in the air evokes a sense of vitality and rebirth. These natural, fleeting pleasures seem to represent the transitory nature of happiness and the sense of impermanence that accompanies it.

The repetition of the phrase "It all comes and goes" throughout the song serves as a reminder of the inherent impermanence and cyclic nature of life. It suggests that no matter how vivid or beautiful a moment may be, it will eventually pass and be replaced by something else. The line "All these woes" reinforces this idea by suggesting that difficulties or sorrows are an inescapable part of life. Even amidst moments of happiness, the presence of hardships is inescapable.

The second verse introduces the image of three daisies being placed in a notebook, an act that captures the fleeting beauty of the flowers. Watching the petals fall out and leaving an indelible mark on the paper symbolizes the inevitability of loss and the lasting impact it can have. The inability to "rub out" the mark suggests that experiences, both positive and negative, leave a permanent imprint on a person's life.

The overall meaning of "Woes" is a contemplation on the transitory nature of life's ups and downs. It acknowledges that moments of happiness and beauty are to be cherished but also recognized as temporary. The song encourages reflection on the impermanence of joy and the need to find balance or acceptance in the face of life's inevitable difficulties.