"End of Beginning" by Djo: A Lyrical Analysis

 

The "Discover Weekly" playlist of Spotify refreshes every week as the name suggests so it was by chance that I stumbled upon this song last year. I've listened to Djo before so the artist wasn't really a new one to me, but the song was. Titled "End of Beginning", this indie-pop rock track by Djo takes us on a journey of self-discovery and reflection, with its dreamy melodies and introspective lyrics.

Lyrical analysis, you ask? Well, let's dive in. "End of Beginning" is more than just a song—it's a journey through time and space, a reflection on the passage of moments and the inevitable march of change. Through its poignant lyrics and haunting melodies, Djo invites us to confront our own experiences of growth and transformation, urging us to embrace the beauty in both the endings and the beginnings that lie ahead.

The song opens with the line "Just one more tear to cry, one teardrop from my eye," setting the tone for a contemplative exploration of emotions. Djo seems to be reminiscing about past experiences, perhaps hinting at a sense of nostalgia or longing for a simpler time. "You better save it for the middle of the night," suggests that these emotions may resurface when least expected.

As the song progresses, we hear references to Chicago and the idea of different versions of oneself. The chorus repeats the lines "And when I'm back in Chicago, I feel it" and "Another version of me, I was in it," indicating a sense of familiarity and connection to a past self. The phrase "end of beginning" (title namesake wow) suggests the conclusion of a chapter or the start of a new phase in life, highlighting themes of transition and change. 

The recurring motif of Chicago serves as a powerful anchor throughout the song, symbolizing not just a physical place, but a metaphorical crossroads where past and present converge. It's a reminder that no matter where life takes us, traces of our past will always linger, shaping the people we become.

And then there's the bridge, with its hypnotic repetition "You take the man out of the city, not the city out the man." Here, Djo delves into the complex interplay between identity and environment, suggesting that while we may physically leave a place behind, its influence remains woven into the fabric of our entire being.

In essence, "End of Beginning" is a testament to the power of music to transcend time and space, to connect us with our deepest emotions and memories. It's a song that speaks to the universal human experience of change and evolution, reminding us that every ending is also a new beginning waiting to unfold.

So, the next time you find yourself lost in the labyrinth of life, take a moment to listen to "End of Beginning" by Djo. Who knows, you might just discover a piece of yourself within its haunting melodies and heartfelt lyrics.