The song "Head to Stars" by Holly Rankin, also known as Jack River, is about a complicated relationship and the conflicting emotions that come with it. The lyrics express a desire to be with someone, but only if that person can be fully committed and reciprocate the same level of love and affection. The song starts with the narrator saying they don't want to know the person if they can't hold them the way they are meant to. This implies that the narrator wants a genuine and deep connection, not just a casual or superficial relationship. The mention of stars falling from the sky signifies a feeling of disappointment and not wanting to be like those who have lost their allure or shine. The following lines describe a specific scene where the two characters interact. The hands in the pocket and the cold night breeze create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The person twirling wind in their hair and gazing at the narrator with a moon glow stare suggests a moment of beauty and attraction. The narrator acknowledges that this situation might seem pretty, but also refers to it as a "freakshow caravan," implying that it may not be a healthy or stable relationship. They express a desire to let go and move on, taking a last look at the person and adding it to their collection, suggesting that they will remember this experience but are ready to move forward. The second verse reveals that the person has lied by burning photographs from the previous summer. The narrator refers to them as a "runaway darling" with a "spider web mind" and a "broken smile," indicating that the person may have a complicated and troubled nature. The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the narrator's unwillingness to engage with the person if they can't truly hold them and give them the love they deserve. The mention of the stars falling from the sky is repeated, highlighting the narrator's aversion to becoming like those who have lost their light. In the bridge, the narrator acknowledges that the person may have tried to survive without love, but they believe that eventually, the person will come back while they will have moved on and be far away. Overall, "Head to Stars" explores themes of longing, disappointment, and the struggle to find genuine connection in relationships. The lyrics paint a picture of conflicting emotions and the desire to find someone who can reciprocate love in the same way.
