Ricky Montgomery – “This December” Lyrics Meaning

Ricky Montgomery’s “This December” speaks of the complexities of personal growth, set against the backdrop of the year’s end. It’s a song about self-realization, acknowledging one’s flaws and the journey toward improvement. Montgomery seems to be speaking to someone specific – possibly a loved one – expressing a desire for them to witness his transformation. The recurring theme of “darkest moments” and “seeing the light” suggests a struggle with inner challenges, hinting at a journey from darkness to enlightenment. The song glances at Montgomery’s own experiences, offering a message of hope and the importance of self-awareness.

Curious about the deeper layers of “This December”? Want to know how Ricky Montgomery weaves a story of personal growth with his lyrics? Keep reading to uncover this captivating song’s emotional depth and artistic nuances.


“This December” Lyrics Meaning

The song starts with a profound admission: “Only in my darkest moments can I see the light.” This line sets the tone for the entire song – it’s about finding clarity and understanding in difficult times. Montgomery seems to acknowledge that his struggles have led to significant personal insights.

As we move through the song, the chorus “Well, this December, I’ll remember” suggests a pivotal moment or time in Montgomery’s life. December, often a time of reflection as the year ends, becomes a metaphor for a period of significant change and realization. The repetition of “I’m alright if you’re alright” and “I’m okay if you’re okay” could indicate a dependency on someone else’s well-being for his own peace of mind. It speaks to the interconnectedness of relationships and how our own happiness can be deeply tied to that of others.

The lines “It’s just a little bit, it’s just a little bit lonely in this home” reveal a sense of isolation, perhaps hinting at the loneliness that often accompanies introspection and personal change. Montgomery’s mention of “let[ting] the season change my mind” further emphasizes the theme of transformation and growth.

In a particularly vivid imagery, he sings about wanting to see someone “with your head wide open / Empty in the ground, gone without a sound.” This could symbolize a desire to connect on a deeper level, to understand and be understood fully, even in the absence of words.

As the song concludes with “Maybe, this December, I’ll remember,” it leaves us with a sense of hope and ongoing growth. Montgomery’s journey isn’t over; it’s a continual process of understanding and adapting, just as the seasons change.

The Story Behind “This December”

The recurring theme of darkness and light in the song hints at a struggle with inner challenges. Montgomery’s emphasis on self-realization and the importance of personal growth indicates that he was perhaps grappling with his own flaws and seeking a path to improvement. The song’s focus on the month of December, a time traditionally associated with reflection and change, underscores this theme of transformation.

The lines “I’m alright if you’re alright” and “I’m okay if you’re okay” suggest a deep emotional connection to someone else, possibly a loved one. This implies that at the time of writing, Montgomery’s well-being was closely tied to the state of this relationship. The sense of loneliness expressed in the song could be reflective of his own feelings of isolation during this period of change.

Montgomery’s use of imagery, such as “Just another white elm growing at the end of town,” adds a poetic depth to the song, suggesting a connection with nature and the passage of time. This could indicate his appreciation for the natural cycles of growth and decay, mirroring his own journey of personal development.

In summary, “This December” appears to be a product of Montgomery’s introspective period, where he was confronting personal challenges, reflecting on his relationships, and embracing the inevitability of change. The song is a testament to his journey towards self-awareness and emotional maturity.