The song "Forest Serenade" by The Joy Formidable seems to explore themes of uncertainty, longing, and the fear of missed opportunities. The lyrics paint a picture of a person wandering through different stages of life, unsure of their direction and relying on what they have been told. The opening lines, "Outside somewhere the shadows roll, I only know what I am told," suggest a sense of wandering and relying on external influences for guidance. The phrase "hurry slowly" implies a need for patience and caution while searching for the truth. The lyrics also touch upon the idea of a predetermined fate, described as "grooves set in another life" and an "open trail of falling signs." It highlights the uncertainty that the narrator feels about their own path, which they acknowledge as solely their own. The chorus warns against being the hand that disrupts or interferes with the narrator's peaceful state, possibly referencing a person or external force that may push them towards different goals. The repetition of "Don't be the hand that takes, lulls my forest serenade" emphasizes the need for autonomy and protection of their own personal journey. The song suggests a desire for one last chance, as the narrator pleads to be allowed to experience a particular moment or relationship "one more time" and "together one last time." However, they also acknowledge that there may be other opportunities in the future, but they fear the intrusion of darker thoughts or missed chances. The concluding lines caution against being the force that hinders the narrator's peaceful and harmonious serenade within the metaphorical forest. The phrase "curtain fall, another cursed gathering ball" may suggest the ending of a particular situation or relationship, portraying it as a negative and unfortunate event. Overall, "Forest Serenade" reflects a sense of longing, uncertainty, and the constant search for meaning and direction in life while expressing a desire for autonomy and protection from external influences that could derail their journey.
