“Various Storms & Saints” weaves a tale of emotional turmoil and self-discovery. This song is about battling inner demons, facing life’s adversities, and ultimately finding strength and freedom within oneself. The lyrics suggest the journey of someone who has been deeply affected by a tumultuous relationship or a challenging phase in life. The songwriter, Florence Welch, uses powerful imagery to convey feelings of being overwhelmed yet finding the resilience to rise above. The song is about the universal experience of overcoming hardship. Welch wrote this song to express personal growth and the journey toward self-acceptance.
Ever wonder how a song can narrate a story of storms within and the quest for peace? “Various Storms & Saints” does just that. It’s more than just lyrics; it’s an odyssey of the soul. Read on, and you’ll find out how.
“Various Storms & Saints” Lyrics Meaning
The track opens with an ambiance of chaos, as depicted by “the air was full of various storms and saints.” This line sets the stage for a story of internal conflict and external chaos. The “storms” represent life’s challenges and emotional turmoil, while the “saints” could symbolize moments of clarity or guidance amidst the chaos.
As the song progresses, Welch sings, “I’m in the throes of it, somewhere in the belly of the beast.” This phrase vividly illustrates being caught in the midst of struggles, possibly hinting at a personal battle or a toxic relationship (“But you took your toll on me”). The choice to “give myself over willingly” suggests a surrender to these challenges, acknowledging their impact.
The chorus, “I am teaching myself how to be free,” is a powerful declaration of self-liberation and personal growth. It reflects the journey from being overwhelmed by life’s “storms” to finding strength and independence. The idea of tearing down the “monument of a memory” in one’s head speaks to letting go of the past and not letting it define or limit one’s future.
In the line, “Don’t make the mountain your enemy,” there’s a shift from self-doubt to empowerment. It’s an encouragement to face challenges head-on rather than fearing them. The metaphor of touching the stars, despite the shock, symbolizes reaching for one’s aspirations despite the risks or fears involved.
The repeated questioning, “Can people just untie themselves? Uncurling like flowers,” speaks to the universal struggle of breaking free from what holds us back, whether it’s past mistakes, regrets, or painful experiences. This idea of uncurling like flowers symbolizes blossoming into a new, freer self.
Toward the end, the song embraces a more hopeful tone. “Hold on to your heart, don’t give it away” serves as a reminder to protect one’s emotional well-being. The encouragement to find a rooftop to sing from or a hallway to dance in symbolizes finding joy and freedom in simple acts, a celebration of life and resilience.
The Story Behind “Various Storms & Saints”
Welch has often spoken about her struggles with anxiety, the pressures of fame, and her journey towards sobriety. These elements of her life heavily influenced the creation of “Various Storms & Saints.” The song becomes a vessel for her to express the tumultuous journey she’s been on, filled with metaphorical storms and moments of enlightenment (saints).
The imagery in the lyrics reflects Welch’s state of mind during this period. Phrases like “in the belly of the beast” and “the monument of a memory” show her confrontation with her inner demons and past experiences. Her lyrics often delve into themes of redemption, self-forgiveness, and the pursuit of inner peace, mirroring her personal quest for stability and happiness.
“Various Storms & Saints” also showcases Welch’s ability to turn her personal struggles into anthems of empowerment and resilience. The song’s evolution from chaos and struggle to hope and freedom mirrors her own growth and self-acceptance. This background adds depth to the song’s interpretation, painting a picture of a talented artist using her music as a means of therapy and self-expression.
In essence, “Various Storms & Saints” is more than a song; it’s a narrative of Welch’s journey, a testament to her strength in facing life’s storms and finding her way to a place of inner calm and clarity.