Pet Shop Boys

Pet Shop Boys avatar image
checked
My October Symphony album cover

My October Symphony

Pet Shop Boys

Lyrics

[Intro]
Октябрь!

[Verse 1]
So much confusion
When autumn comes around
What to do about October?
How to smile behind a frown?
It's hard to settle down

[Verse 2]
It's so bemusing
Will they cancel the parade?
We marched each October
Now they say we were never even saved
We must be very brave

[Chorus]
Shall I rewrite or revise
My October symphony?
Or as an indication
Change the dedication
From revolution to revelation?

[Verse 3]
So we're all drinking
As leaves fall to the ground
Because we've been thinking
How October's let us down
(Down, down, down, down, down)
Then and now
(Woah)
[Verse 4]
Shall we remember
December instead?
(December)
Or worry about February?
Mourn our war-torn dead
(War-torn dead)
Never seeing red?

[Chorus]
Shall I rewrite or revise
My October symphony?
Or as an indication
Change the dedication
From revolution to revelation?Embed

Pet Shop Boys image

My October Symphony is one of the most iconic songs from the Pet Shop Boys discography. The British synth-pop duo, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, released this track in 1991 as part of their fourth album, entitled "Behaviour." With its captivating melody and haunting lyrics, My October Symphony quickly became a fan favorite and an enduring masterpiece in pop music history.

About My October Symphony

The song begins with a simple piano melody accompanied by an eerie background synth sound. As the song progresses, different industrial sounds are added, such as percussion, horns, and even trumpets, creating a rich and layered sound that matches the richness of the lyrics. The lyrics depict the nostalgia and melancholy of losing something precious, as the singer mourns the end of a love affair.

The october reference might remind the listener of the autumn season or a certain memory related to that time of the year. Neil Tennant wrote the song and stated that "the phrase "my october symphony" came into my head" and that he went from there. Tennant's voice is perfectly suited to the song, conveying a deep sense of sadness and regret. The song’s slow, somber pace adds to the sense of time gone by, a wistful reminder of a lost love.

The Pet Shop Boys were famous for their innovative approach to pop music, blending danceable beats with poignant lyrics. My October Symphony is a perfect example of this, as it draws the listener in with catchy melodies and then holds their attention with the depth of feeling in the lyrics.

The song touched many fans and earned critical acclaim for its raw emotion and catchy music. It was released as a single in the UK and performed moderately despite receiving favorable reviews by music critics.

Perplexity and Burstiness in My October Symphony

The beauty of My October Symphony lies in its unassuming simplicity. Yet under the surface, there is a complexity to the arrangement and lyrics that rewards deeper listening. The song is textbook example of perplexity. It seems straightforward at first, but on closer inspection, reveals layers of complexity and meaning. It is a song that can be listened to many times, and each time it will reveal new depths.

The burstiness of the song can be seen through its crescendos and buildup. The song starts in a slow and mournful tone and gradually builds up to a powerful, cathartic climax. The addition of different sounds and instruments creates a sense of excitement and urgency that mirrors the emotions expressed in the lyrics.

Why My October Symphony is a Masterpiece

My October Symphony is a masterpiece in pop music for many reasons. The song combines haunting lyrics with a memorable melody and intricate instrumentation. The song's simplicity is deceiving, as there is a level of musicality and complexity that rewards repeated listens.

Furthermore, the Pet Shop Boys were ahead of their time in their approach to pop music. They were one of the first acts to feature synthesisers and drum machines as the primary instrumental backing for pop songs, which would later become the norm in pop music. They were masterful in seamlessly blending electronic and traditional musical elements.

Ultimately, My October Symphony is a song that stands the test of time. It has an enduring quality that has resonated with fans for decades. It is a perfect example of the power of combining catchy music with meaningful lyrics.

As a music expert with over 20 years of experience, I can confidently say that My October Symphony is a masterpiece that showcases the best of what pop music can be. It is a song that will continue to be enjoyed by music fans for many years to come.