Call The Days As They Were Known
Nadia Reid Lyrics

The lyrics of Nadia Reid's song "Call The Days As They Were Known" are a reflection of self-discovery, regret, and acceptance. The first stanza sets the tone of the song, as Reid captures the listener's attention by introducing the concept of the "mothers' tongue." She is referring to her mother's legacy and heritage, something deeply ingrained within her. The mother advises her not to become undone, presumably in regards to the choices she has made in life. Reid then goes on to express that she feels far from home, and that the feeling of being lost might lead to her death, represented metaphorically as finding peace in heaven. The second stanza highlights Reid's internal struggle, where she acknowledges that she is the one digging her own grave, going after something vague and elusive, represented as a ship beneath the haze. She then realizes that her certainty in someone's love would eventually dissipate, showing that uncertainty and change are life's constants. However, Reid also acknowledges the happiness she found while being single and independent, where she could call the days as they were known, meaning, she had self-awareness and control over her life. The chorus is primarily about guilt, the mark it leaves and how it is hard to ignore, even when you strive to be happy on your own.

In the third and final stanza, Reid takes it up a notch, taking responsibility for the coldness she has let enter her life, getting rid of her winter coats, admitting that she is aware of what she's done by cutting the sleeves. Lastly, she realizes that she was happy on her own, yet guilty of wanting someone to stay and love her anyway.

Overall, the song depicts the journey of self-acceptance, exploring the highs and lows of life, acknowledging mistakes made and how the past molds the present, and how guilt's weight can live with us for a long time.