Black Swan Song

One of my favourite bands is Athlete, a small indie group from London. Around the time Olivia was born, I started listening to their new(ish) albums, The Getaway and Black Swan.

At the time their music really resonated with how I was feeling, completely broken and unable to see past each day. One song song in particular, called Black Swan Song, really spoke to me. I've been listening to it for months and over time the lyrics took on a new meaning for me. They went from mirroring my despair to becoming a source of hope and reminding me to appreciate my friends and family who helped me to survive the most difficult time of my life.  Going through something like that was an eye opener - you truly learn who the most important people in your life are during these moments (especially those who surface after years without any contact).

Here's a live clip of the song:

And here's the lyrics:

I waded through the darkest fields you'd imagine
Your pretty face sketched on the barrel of my gun
And i know you'll be the first to welcome me
When i climb into eternity
Oh,oh

The forest kept us warm
But it doesn't feel like home anymore
And i know there's bigger mountains where you are
And a better climate for my heart
Oh,oh

I've been racing the clock
And I've run out of steam
I am ready for my final symphony
Oh my body is weak
But my soul is still strong
I am ready to rest in your arms

Though many battles i have won
I lost too many friends i could count on
And i know they'll be the first to welcome me
When i parachute into eternity
Oh,oh

I've been racing the clock
And I've run out of steam
I am ready for my final symphony
Oh my body is weak
But my soul is still strong
I am ready to rest in your arms

And the rain beat down on the rooftops
But there was no sound,
There was no sound
And all my friends and family carried me
They carried me home
Carried me home

I've been racing the clock
And I've run out of steam
I am ready for my final symphony
Oh my body is weak
But my soul is still strong
I am ready to rest in your arms

I've been racing the clock
And I've run out of steam
I am ready for my final symphony
Oh my body is weak
But my soul is still strong
I am ready to rest in your arms
Oh, oh

Interestingly, the song is about the lead singer's grandfather, who fought in the war, and recently passed away (you can watch the proper video here, which better explains the story). For me, it reminds me that I have family and friends who love me, and who carried me through the darkest days of my life.  Thank you to each of you, you know who you are!