The Lumineers – Ophelia (Official Music Video)
Inpsiration Behind Ophelia:
Ophelia evolved over time from members of the Lumineers own experiences navigating fame. The lyrics were inspired by personal reflection and literary allusion. The melody and sound of Ophelia began as a slower instrumental demo in 2011. While performing at a dive bar in LA, Wesley Schultz decided that the name Ophelia fit right musicality. This live performance sped up this tune into its current form.
Biblical Application:
A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold, Proverbs 22:1.
Exegesis of Ophelia:
Ah, ah, when I was younger
I, I should’ve known better
And I can’t feel no remorse
And you don’t feel nothing back
A band member is thinking about a former girlfriend. Being young and immature didn’t help nurture this relationship.
I, I got a new girlfriend here
Feels like he’s on top
And I don’t feel no remorse
And you can’t see past my blindness
Hoping to learn from past failed relationships. Both people have moved on so you shouldn’t feel bad or guilty. Final note about blind spots, oblivious to certain things.
Oh, Ophelia, you’ve been on my mind, girl, since the flood
Oh, Ophelia, Heaven help the fool who falls in love
Perhaps a natural disaster brought this woman back to the forefront.
I, I got a little paycheck
You got big plans and you gotta move (woo!)
And I don’t feel nothing at all
And you can’t feel nothing small
A new job and relationship led to a desire to move. Band members didn’t seem sad or remorseful.
Honey, I love you
That’s all she wrote
Oh, Ophelia, you’ve been on my mind, girl, like a drug
No physical goodbye, just a note. This letter brought up a flood of emotions, triggering lost love.
Oh, Ophelia, Heaven help the fool who falls in love
Oh, Ophelia, you’ve been on my mind, girl, since the flood
Oh, Ophelia, Heaven help the fool who falls in love
Oh, Ophelia, you’ve been on my mind, girl, like a drug
Oh, Ophelia, Heaven help the fool who falls in love
A warning about falling in love without thinking about how this new relationship will impact your life. Being constantly on the road, traveling from one town to the next didn’t mix with a serious relationship. These are the life lessons learned by members of the Lumineers.
Final Thoughts:
Despite being extremely shy in my early years, I became someone who often poured out their heart to strangers when the timing was right. This was often at a camp, during a retreat of some sort of spiritual renewal. In high school, I was looking for a friend. Yet as I grew older, I began searching for a soul mate. This is what I found when I got married to Leanne.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 