The Joy Formidable's song "Only Once" is a poetic and introspective track that explores themes of longing, connection, and the fleeting nature of life. The lyrics evoke a sense of darkness and uncertainty, as the protagonist glides through the dark and observes birds in danger. They question whether the birds are following the stars or fleeing their nests, metaphorically reflecting on their own journey and search for meaning. The song further delves into the complexities of relationships and emotions. The protagonist runs through grass, leaving a part of themselves behind, and expresses a deep longing to see a loved one in everything around them. There is an ache they cannot hide, and they experience their presence in both tangible and intangible ways. The lyrics suggest a sense of transience and the inevitability of separation. The lines "Only once till we disappear, into each other" allude to the fleeting nature of connection and the eventual dissolution of oneself into another. The protagonist feels the presence of their loved one, even in sleep, highlighting the depth of their connection. The chorus of the song emphasizes the eternal bond between the protagonist and their loved one. It states "We'll never come apart" repeatedly, reinforcing the idea that their connection is unbreakable and enduring. The song takes a more introspective turn in the later verses, with the lyrics exploring honesty, chasing desires, and the concept of heaven. The protagonist questions why their loved one stayed, and whether they can trust their intentions. They express a willingness to face the challenges and uncertainties of life, even if it means facing the moon or chasing after it. The mention of heaven implies a longing for something more transcendent. The song concludes with a plea to be loved intensely, with contrasting imagery of cold forest creeks and hot desert rocks. The protagonist seeks a love that will not end and wants to be embraced fully without reservation. In summary, "Only Once" by The Joy Formidable is a poetic exploration of longing, connection, and the fleeting nature of life and love. The lyrics evoke a sense of introspection and evoke various emotions and imagery to convey the complex themes within the song.
