Goodnight Goodbye
The Julie Ruin Lyrics

The song "Goodnight Goodbye" by The Julie Ruin is an upbeat and empowering song that deals with themes of self-acceptance, perseverance, and owning one's identity. The first stanza of the song sets the scene of a gritty and determined journey, as the singer drives through the night through "dirty melted snow," driven solely by their passion for their craft and their desire to create and perform music. The singer notes that they weren't concerned with whether or not they would ever achieve mainstream success or get played on the radio, because their motivation lay in their own self-expression and desire to create.

The chorus of the song, which repeats the phrase "Goodnight, goodbye," emphasizes the theme of self-acceptance and moving on. The singer seems to be saying goodbye to the past, perhaps to past struggles, pain, or even a past self. The chorus can be interpreted as a positive and empowering message of self-love and resilience, as the singer embraces their current self and asserts their own self-worth.

The second stanza of the song touches on the theme of growing older and coming to terms with one's identity. The singer, at 41 years old, seems to be reflecting on the passage of time and the ways in which they have changed and grown. They wonder if their teenage self, who may have been more confrontational or rebellious, would "sneer back" at the person they have become. This stanza highlights the tension that can exist between our past selves and our present selves, as well as the importance of self-acceptance and self-love even as we grow and change.

Overall, "Goodnight Goodbye" is a powerful and upbeat song that celebrates self-expression, perseverance, and self-acceptance. Its catchy chorus and driving energy make it an empowering anthem for anyone who has ever struggled with self-doubt or fear of societal expectations.