December 1999
Jolie Holland Lyrics

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I'll see you in the springtime
After the battle is won
I know I'm crossing over
As far as we have come

And I want your hand in mine, dear
As we face that shining dawn
Eyes open, I'm hoping you'll be there with me

So gently I want your hand in mine

I want you by my side in the midst of our great victory
The storm clouds had all gathered
We drew our forces nigh
And entered into battle though it clamored to the sky

And we faced that fateful lightning with saints on our side
Eyes open, I'll follow that lonesome road to the top of the mountain

Where the fire is blazing and the heat is astounding
What's even more amazing is to see you by my side

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Jolie Holland's "December 1999" seem to convey a message of hope and determination. The opening line, "I'll see you in the springtime after the battle is won," suggests that the singer is anticipating a victory over some kind of struggle. They are confident that they will emerge victorious, and they are looking forward to sharing that triumph with their loved one.

The chorus is particularly striking, with its repeated refrain of "I want your hand in mine." This seems to symbolize the singer's desire for closeness and intimacy, even in the midst of hardship. They want their loved one to be by their side as they face whatever trials lie ahead. There is a sense of vulnerability in these lines, a recognition that victory is not assured, and that they may need support to make it through.

The final verse brings a sense of awe and wonder to the song, as the singer describes a blazing fire and "the heat is astounding." The imagery here suggests a transformation, a kind of rebirth after the struggles of the battle. And again, the singer longs to have their loved one with them, to share in this moment of transcendence.

Overall, this is a song that speaks to the human desire for connection and resilience in the face of adversity. It is a reminder that even when things seem dark, there is always the possibility of hope and beauty.

Line by Line Meaning

I'll see you in the springtime
I will meet you again when everything is renewed.

After the battle is won
Once victory has been achieved.

I know I'm crossing over
I believe that I am transitioning to the next phase of existence.

As far as we have come
We have endured a long and challenging journey.

And I want your hand in mine, dear
I desire your caring presence by my side.

As we face that shining dawn
Together, we will confront the new beginning.

Eyes open, I'm hoping you'll be there with me
I anticipate you will accompany me through the unknown.

So gently I want your hand in mine
I would like your hand in mine, tenderly, with understanding.

I want you by my side in the midst of our great victory
I desire your presence alongside me as we triumph.

The storm clouds had all gathered
The situation had become dire.

We drew our forces nigh
We united our strength.