Fleet Foxes

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
All this time I've been hanging on
To an edge I caught when we both were young
That the world I won wasn't near enough
Always distant, always all
In all that war, I'd forgotten how
Many men might die for what I'd renounced
I was staging life as a battleground
No, I let that grasping fall

[Chorus]
May the last long year be forgiven
All that war left within it
I couldn't, though I'm beginning to
And we've only made it together
Feel some change in the weather
I couldn't, though I'm beginning to

[Verse 2]
And though it's all so uncertain, cold
All the rafters cracked, all the copper sold
There's a ration back in a manifold
If you need it or forgot

[Chorus]
May the last long year be forgiven
All that war left within it
I couldn't, though I'm beginning to
And we've only made it together
Feel some change in the weather
I couldn't, though I'm beginning to
[Bridge]
And somehow I see
It's free

[Verse 3]
And with love and hate in the balance
One last way past the malice
One warm day's all I really need
And with love and hate in the balance
One last way past the malice
One warm day is all I really needEmbed

Featherweight by Fleet Foxes is a powerful song that reflects the tumultuous events that took place in the summer of 2020. Influenced by critical political, racial, and humanitarian issues, the song addresses the speaker's perceptions and opinions developed during their youth, only to realize the complex realities of the world that often clash with their initial understanding. As the song laments the lengths some individuals go to defend their ideals, it also holds hope for a future characterized by cooperation and peace. Furthermore, Featherweight reflects on the profound emotions of love and hate that defined the year 2020.

About Featherweight

Featherweight is an introspective and thought-provoking track that encapsulates the essence of Fleet Foxes' signature sound. With beautiful harmonies, intricate instrumentals, and poignant lyrics, the song takes listeners on a journey of self-discovery and reflection.

Robin, the lead vocalist and songwriter of Fleet Foxes, drew inspiration from the significant events that unfolded in the summer of 2020. During this time, the world witnessed a surge of widespread protests against racial injustice and police brutality, as well as the ongoing global pandemic that disrupted lives and economies. These critical political, racial, and humanitarian issues left an indelible mark on Robin's creative process, leading to the creation of Featherweight.

The song explores the speaker's perceptions and beliefs formed during their youth. It delves into the idea that as individuals grow older, they often encounter experiences and realities that challenge their initial understanding of the world. Featherweight acts as a lament to this realization, acknowledging the clash between the speaker's once-held perceptions and the complexities of reality that they now face.

One of the central themes of Featherweight is the lengths to which some people go to defend their ideals, even when others have renounced them. It serves as a reflection on the divisions and conflicts that arise from differing beliefs and ideologies. Fleet Foxes urge listeners to consider the consequences of such extreme actions and the impact they have on society as a whole.

Amidst the song's contemplative tone, there is a glimmer of hope. Featherweight embraces the vision of a brighter future characterized by cooperation and peace. It encourages listeners to let go of rigid ideology, to find common ground, and work towards a world where harmony and understanding prevail.

Featherweight also speaks to the emotional rollercoaster experienced during the year 2020. The lyrics capture the essence of the immense love and hate that permeated society during this time. From the compassion and unity demonstrated by individuals supporting social justice movements, to the deep divisions and animosity that emerged as a result of political polarization, the song reflects the contrasting emotions that defined the year.

Fleet Foxes' artistry shines through in Featherweight, as they employ their signature sound to convey a profound and introspective message. The instrumentation of the track, infused with delicate acoustic guitar melodies, ethereal harmonies, and evocative percussion, creates a captivating sonic landscape that envelops the listener.

The lyrics of Featherweight are poetic and evocative, capturing the complexities of human experience with a thoughtful and introspective approach. Robin's distinctive vocals breathe life into the words, infusing them with raw emotion that resonates with listeners on a deep level. The song's melodic structure flows seamlessly, further enhancing the impact of the lyrics.

Ultimately, Featherweight by Fleet Foxes is a compelling musical journey that reflects the profound influence of the critical events that unfolded in the summer of 2020. With its introspective lyrics, captivating instrumentation, and poignant message of hope, the song invites listeners to reflect on their own perceptions, embrace complexity, and strive for a better tomorrow.

• Release Date: September 22, 2020
• Artist: Fleet Foxes