The lyrics of Mason Jennings's song "Birds Flying Away" tell a story about the singer's past and the love he found in a town on the Cuban coast. At the age of nineteen in 1925, he left his country and ended up in this town. There, he met a woman who became his whole life. When he first saw her, the darkness and sadness in his life vanished, symbolized by the fleeing of darkness like a blackbird into the sun. The singer and the woman eventually got married, and he expresses his gratitude to God for this blessing. The lyrics shift to a different time, where the singer recalls their passionate moments together. He likens their intimacy to climbing up her shoulders and coming together like a lion, only to come crashing down as if they were dying. This displays the intensity and deep connection they shared. However, the tone changes as the singer acknowledges his wrongdoings and asks for forgiveness from God. He feels burdened by his past actions and seeks relief from carrying this weight. He pleads with God to not keep him constantly running or hiding from his mistakes. The song ends with the singer's plea for God's help and understanding, asking for assistance in explaining his experiences and the emotions he has gone through. Overall, "Birds Flying Away" reflects on love, loss, regret, and the desire for redemption. It portrays the complexity of human relationships and the longing for forgiveness and understanding.
