To the comment above re: Chris Martin saying, "This is the greatest song ever written," he is definitely referring to this, and not "Night Swimming." This song become a universal relief project, founded by Michael Stipe and Chris Martin, with the authorization from Joseph Arthur. The 3 of them, as well as Justin Timberlake and Timbaland (I believe) created a CD with 7 or 8 interpretations of this song, and all sales went to some sort of relief effort. In Chris and Michael's live version, Chris makes that comment, which certainly would not have been included if he were actually referring to Nightswimming, which has no relative meaning for this album.
In terms of meaning, I think it's pretty simple, although the lyrics are vague enough to allow for personalized interpretation, which is always great. I'd say it's post-breakup, and the guy broke up with the girl, but harbors no ill-will toward her. And he is partly consoling her because he still cares about her, and wants her to know that she was responsible for a number of great things that happened in his life and changed him for the better, and partly explaining that he is in a complicated place in his life where he is looking for answers for himself and doesn't want to drag her down with him because he can't commit at this time. In summation, I think it's like an appology, mixed with a thank-you for everything and a pep-talk to stay strong and not to worry, because she'll be okay.
To the comment above re: Chris Martin saying, "This is the greatest song ever written," he is definitely referring to this, and not "Night Swimming." This song become a universal relief project, founded by Michael Stipe and Chris Martin, with the authorization from Joseph Arthur. The 3 of them, as well as Justin Timberlake and Timbaland (I believe) created a CD with 7 or 8 interpretations of this song, and all sales went to some sort of relief effort. In Chris and Michael's live version, Chris makes that comment, which certainly would not have been included if he were actually referring to Nightswimming, which has no relative meaning for this album.
In terms of meaning, I think it's pretty simple, although the lyrics are vague enough to allow for personalized interpretation, which is always great. I'd say it's post-breakup, and the guy broke up with the girl, but harbors no ill-will toward her. And he is partly consoling her because he still cares about her, and wants her to know that she was responsible for a number of great things that happened in his life and changed him for the better, and partly explaining that he is in a complicated place in his life where he is looking for answers for himself and doesn't want to drag her down with him because he can't commit at this time. In summation, I think it's like an appology, mixed with a thank-you for everything and a pep-talk to stay strong and not to worry, because she'll be okay.
No, Chris Martin was referring to Night Swimming. I saw him say that about Night Swimming just before he and Michael performed it.
No, Chris Martin was referring to Night Swimming. I saw him say that about Night Swimming just before he and Michael performed it.