If you see Natalie
Send along this message
I know that you've been through
An awful lot of late

Girl,
Steady the trembling hand
That's what you do
Girl,
Steady your trembling hands
Then see what's in front of you

Friends and fortunetellers
They all say you're gonna die
If you don't brighten up
You know you gotta try

Girl,
Steady the trembling hand
That's what you do
Girl,
Steady your trembling hands
Then see what's in front of you

If you see Natalie
Send along this message
You may not need this world
But this world needs you here

Girl,
Steady the trembling hand
That's what you do
Girl,
Steady your trembling hands
Then see what's in front of you

You might not feel it now
But you're gonna get there
And see it somehow
You're gonna be alright, girl

Overall Meaning

Eels’ song “If You See Natalie” is a heartfelt plea to a woman named Natalie who is going through a difficult time. The lyrics encourage her to steady her trembling hands and not give up on life because the world needs her. The song delivers a strong message of hope and the importance of perseverance when faced with adversity. The line “Friends and fortunetellers, they all say you’re gonna die” highlights the gravity of Natalie’s situation and the urgency to take action.

The repetition of “steady the trembling hand” is a powerful metaphor for regaining control over one’s life even in the face of uncertainty. The message in the song is clear: Natalie is important, and her presence is needed in the world, despite what she may be feeling. The song is poignant and the melody is melancholic, reflecting the sadness and desperation of the lyrics.

Overall, “If You See Natalie” is a song that speaks to the human experience of pain and hopelessness. The lyrics urge the listener to hold on, to not give up, and to find the strength within oneself to see a way out of the struggles of life.

Line by Line Meaning

If you see Natalie
If you happen to come across Natalie,

Send along this message
Please pass on this message for me:

I know that you've been through
I am aware that you have recently experienced

An awful lot of late
A significant amount of difficulty or pain lately

Girl,
Addressing Natalie in a compassionate manner,

Steady the trembling hand
Stay calm and composed despite feeling scared, nervous or uncertain

That's what you do
This is how you can face your fears or challenges

Then see what's in front of you
Then you can clearly perceive the reality of the situation rather than be driven by fear or anxiety

Friends and fortunetellers
People close to you or even those who are not suggest that

They all say you're gonna die
You may not survive the difficulties you are currently facing

If you don't brighten up
If you don't try to change your attitude and outlook