Song meaning of Stick Season by Noah Kahan

"Stick Season" by Noah Kahan is a heartfelt and introspective song that delves into the complexities of a failed relationship and the lingering emotions that come with it. The song opens with the narrator reflecting on a promise made by their partner, who seemed to have a change of heart during a car ride. The lyrics suggest that the narrator feels abandoned and left behind, as their partner drives straight past their exit, symbolizing the end of their shared future.

The narrator finds themselves caught between anger and self-blame, struggling to cope with the memories that haunt them. They admit that even substances like smoking weed cannot replace the pain and longing they feel. The mention of being terrified of the weather because it reminds them of their ex-lover when it rains adds a poignant layer to the song. The line about COVID on planes reflects the current reality of the pandemic, further emphasizing the isolation and inability to escape from their emotions.

The chorus highlights the narrator's conflicting emotions and their love for Vermont, a place that holds significance for them. However, it is described as the "season of the sticks," suggesting a sense of desolation and loneliness. The mention of seeing their ex-partner's mother, who has seemingly forgotten their existence, adds to the feeling of being forgotten and left behind.

The narrator acknowledges their own role in the relationship's downfall, admitting that they tend to play the victim. They cope with their pain by turning to alcohol, hoping to find solace when their friends come home for Christmas. The lyrics also reveal that the narrator continues to dream of a version of their ex-lover, holding onto the hope that they haven't completely lost them. However, all that remains are tire tracks and one pair of shoes, symbolizing the remnants of their past relationship.

In the second verse, the narrator attempts to counterbalance the darkness inherited from their father by seeking out positive experiences. However, they admit that they no longer feel funny without their partner's laughter. The line "You once called me 'forever,' now you still can't call me back" expresses the pain of being forgotten and discarded.

The bridge expresses a glimmer of hope, with the narrator wishing that their pain will eventually pass. However, they doubt that it will truly fade away. The song concludes with a repetition of the chorus, emphasizing the narrator's love for Vermont and their struggle to move on. They continue to dream of a version of their ex-lover that they may never have, but they refuse to accept that they have completely lost them. The final line, "And I'm split in half, but that'll have to do," encapsulates the lingering pain and the narrator's attempt to find some semblance of wholeness despite their broken heart.

Overall, "Stick Season" is a poignant and relatable song that explores the aftermath of a failed relationship, capturing the raw emotions and the longing for closure and healing. Noah Kahan's introspective lyrics and emotive delivery make this song a powerful reflection on love, loss, and the complexities of moving on.