There are certain songs that just resonate with you. Whether that song recreates a moment in time or is just one that you really like, these songs are the songs that helped create the person you are and were a constant companion in the journey called life.
Today we continue exploring those songs in my life and what they mean to me. This is Those Certain Songs.
Today’s Certain Song is Somebody That I Used To Know by Elliot Smith
The Song:
Title: Somebody That I Used To Know
Artist: Elliot Smith
Album: Figure 8
The Lyrics:
But it’s your heart not mine that’s scarred
So when I go home I’ll be happy to go
You’re just somebody that I used to know
It’s all now to you; there ain’t no before
Now that you’re big enough to run your own show
You’re just somebody that I used to know
And throw a living past away
So you can be sure that you’re in control
You’re just somebody that I used to know
And I can’t stay this mad for long
Keeping a hold of what you just let go
You’re just somebody that I used to know
What it means to me:
Have you ever been in a relationship that, while it felt good at first and the other person seemed happy, that all you felt was your identity slowly slipping away? I mean, we have all been in bad relationships, okay, many of us have, and you can’t toss a rock without hitting a song about a lost love or a bitter memory, but Elliot Smith has a way with his songs that just cut to the truth of the matter.
Earlier this week I discussed the album this song came from and, while I didn’t specifically call this song out in that post, it remains one of my favorite. It’s short, sweet and to the point telling some unknown person that, even though he had a history with them, he is moving on because it just didn’t work out.
I’ve been lucky enough to be with someone for nearly two decades that I find solace in. Before that, well, trust me, I went through my fair share of bad relationships. One thing I learned though, if you want to survive and find healing, you can’t dwell on the bad experiences or the negative emotions, you have to accept that some people are indeed ‘just somebody that I used to know’ and just move on. It’s not only healthier but helps you give yourself a clean break from what could become a bitter part of your soul if you are not careful. This applies to family members, friends and others as well. Toxic relationships are not always the romantic ones.
We have all been there, probably muddled over the words of how to say goodbye, but Elliot sums it up in such an elegant manner spelling it out as only he can, that when it is time to say goodbye, well, don’t linger and don’t stay bitter, it’s really not worth your time.
Till next time, chin up and all that.
Late to the Game 8/15/2020
Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed Those Certain Songs. If you would like to read more about music you can find my Music Reviews Here.
Additionally, I have a weekly series called Key Movies Of My Life that comes out every Thursday and also check out some retro tv goodness with the ongoing series Retro TV Reviews.
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