"A Certain Way" by George Ogilvie tells the story of someone who is reflecting on their past and contemplating making changes in their life. The song explores themes of nostalgia, self-doubt, and the desire to find meaning and purpose. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist feels the need to change their aftershave, possibly as a symbolic gesture of leaving behind their old self or seeking a fresh start. However, they acknowledge that this act alone would not be enough to truly transform their life. The protagonist reflects on the past year, describing it as "bent out of shape" and refers to taking themselves away during that time. This could imply that they distanced themselves from certain people or situations, maybe due to personal struggles or dissatisfaction. The mention of phone calls coming "from out of range" and the irony of the "good old days" suggests that the protagonist may have experienced some sort of disconnect or loss of connection with their past. They might feel conflicted about nostalgic memories since those times have changed or are no longer as enjoyable as they once were. The lyrics continue with the protagonist considering rearranging their flat, thinking that it might help to rebuild their confidence. However, they question whether this change in their physical environment would really address the deeper issues they face. The protagonist admits to casting shadows and lacking confidence in the words they speak, which emphasizes their self-doubt and uncertainty. Despite this, they recognize that the furniture in their life has done nothing wrong, suggesting that external factors are not to blame for their struggles. The song then shifts to the protagonist discussing their cautiousness around the music they listen to. This caution possibly stems from a fear of being reminded of certain places or experiences that evoke strong emotions. The mention of the laundromat and the churchyard suggests that these places hold significance and may have been connected to the protagonist's past emotional state or habits like drinking. The protagonist acknowledges a desire to feel a certain way and perhaps seeks some form of transcendence or escape from reality. This could be interpreted as wanting to find meaning or a different perspective on life. The repetition of the line, "I'll be outside" at the end of the song could reflect the protagonist's longing for change and a sense of being on the outside of themselves, looking in. It can also signify a yearning to break free from their current circumstances and find a new path forward. Overall, "A Certain Way" delves into the complexities of personal growth, self-reflection, and the search for meaning and purpose. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who is aware of their struggles and past mistakes but is uncertain about the best way to move forward and find inner peace.
