Concerning the UFO Sighting Ne
Sufjan Stevens Lyrics


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When the revenant came down
We couldn't imagine what it was
In the spirit of three stars
The alien thing that took its form

Then to Lebanon, oh, God
The flashing at night, the sirens grow and grow
(Oh history involved itself)
Mysterious shade that took its form (or what it was)




Incarnation, three stars
Delivering signs and dusting from their eyes

Overall Meaning

The song "Concerning the UFO Sighting Near Highland Illinois" by Sufjan Stevens is a poignant and mystical exploration of the wonder and uncertainty surrounding the sighting of a possible alien spacecraft. The lyrics describe the sudden appearance of a "revenant", an apparition or ghost-like figure, that was initially unidentifiable and mysterious. The use of the word "revenant" suggests a haunting, spectral presence that is otherworldly and possibly even dangerous.


As the song progresses, we are told that the "alien thing" takes the form of a "mysterious shade" that seems to deliver signs and messages to the people of Lebanon, Illinois. The flashing lights, sirens, and historical significance of the event all contribute to the sense of awe and wonder that permeates the song. The three stars that are mentioned several times in the lyrics may be a reference to the three wise men who followed a star to find the baby Jesus in the Christian tradition, suggesting that this UFO sighting is a portent of something significant and transformative.


Overall, the song captures the sense of mystery and awe that surrounds such sightings, and encourages us to remain open to the possibility of encounters with the unknown and the unexplainable.


Line by Line Meaning

When the revenant came down
When the ghost-like being descended from above


We couldn't imagine what it was
We were unable to comprehend what we were seeing


In the spirit of three stars
Representing the aura of three celestial bodies


The alien thing that took its form
The extraterrestrial entity that manifested itself into a physical shape


Then to Lebanon, oh, God
Then it traveled to Lebanon, invoking divine intervention


The flashing at night, the sirens grow and grow
The bright lights and loud alarms increased incessantly throughout the night


(Oh history involved itself)
(It became a pivotal moment in history)


Mysterious shade that took its form (or what it was)
The unknown shadow that appeared in physical or otherworldly state


Incarnation, three stars
The embodiment, represented by three stars


Delivering signs and dusting from their eyes
Sending messages and removing obstructions from their vision




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: Sufjan Stevens

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@shamiefirebolt

I showed this song to my class in middle school for a book report; when it started playing alot of other kids were laughing at the lyrics I love it but I was so embarrassed they were laughing I went and cut the song off short.The class ended shortly after and I was just about ready to hit myself. Then this one boy came over once everyone left and asked 'Hey, what's this song called again? I really liked it' I swear I could have hugged him. Now we exchange new music and its just fantastic :)

@Moondust111

Beautiful

@davidharveynottheprofessor2372

This song means so much to a lot of people and I’m sorry that happened and I’m glad you found a friend

@ggallintedtalk

How did it go with him?

@whodatninja439

I remember watching this video long, long time ago when it barely had any views. It still impresses me! So creative! It also introduced me to Sufjan Stevens!

@csilt

Same here! I love this whole album. Sufjan is a genius

@Orjonast

Sufjan played this on Saturday in Oslo, and he cried at the end. He didn`t make a big deal out of it, but just as he finished a tear fell on the piano. Magic.

@jchav27

This song is absolutley stunning. So beautiful. Sufjan Stevens is a blessing!

@Ritsel12727

Damn, this is one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard.

@wickedspork

this is probably the best fan vid ive ever seen since it goes perfectly with the song. giving it 5 stars doesnt do it enough justice. very very good job.

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