“Saturn” by Sleeping At Last captures the awe of the universe, reflecting on love, loss, and the beauty of existence. The song emphasizes how fleeting life is, juxtaposing it with the vastness of the cosmos. The lyrics convey a profound message: to cherish every moment and recognize the rarity and wonder of our very existence.
Hungry for a deeper journey into the cosmos of this song? Read on for a lyrical exploration!
“Saturn” Lyrics Meaning
Kicking off with “You taught me the courage of stars before you left,” immediately, there’s a sense of someone imparting wisdom. This person speaks of the universe’s vastness, its beauty, and the resilience of light. Light, as it continues endlessly even after its source (like a star) dies, becomes a metaphor for enduring memories and lessons even after someone has gone.
The lines, “With shortness of breath, You explained the infinite,” express an urgency. Perhaps time was limited for this person, yet they spent those fleeting moments discussing life’s grandeur. It drives home the idea that even in our brief lives, we touch on the timeless.
The chorus, where the singer wishes to hear the words again, emphasizes the impact this person had. It’s both an ode to the loved one and a self-reflection on understanding one’s place in the universe.
Repeatedly, the song circles back to the sentiment of valuing our existence, emphasizing its rarity. “How rare and beautiful it truly is that we exist” isn’t just about individual existence but human consciousness, our ability to perceive and appreciate the universe around us. It’s a reminder to marvel at life and the cosmos.
The Story Behind “Saturn”
Sleeping At Last, led by Ryan O’Neal, is known for its profound, atmospheric compositions. When crafting “Saturn,” O’Neal was in a phase of life filled with reflection and appreciation for the larger world around him.
In the grander scheme of things, “Saturn” is a part of the “Space” series, where Sleeping At Last musically explores celestial bodies. This series sought to draw parallels between the vast universe and human emotions. If songs like “Mars” or “Neptune” dealt with themes of ambition or mystery respectively, “Saturn” served as the epitome of contemplation and wonder.
Drawing inspiration from astronomy and the idea of celestial bodies being millions of years old, O’Neal found a way to discuss human existence’s ephemeral nature. We live, love, and lose, all in a short span when compared to the universe’s age.
The song’s sense of longing and remembrance could hint at personal loss. Whether O’Neal faced a personal tragedy or the lyrics are an amalgamation of universal feelings of losing someone dear is subjective.
However, one thing is clear. O’Neal, through “Saturn,” intends for listeners to pause, reflect, and find beauty in the very act of existing amidst the endless cosmos. It’s a gentle nudge, urging us to value life, cherish memories, and be grateful for the vast, beautiful universe that we get to perceive.