Noah Kahan - Stick Season Lyrics + Analysis

As the vibrant hues of autumn give way to the stark, skeletal trees of late fall, there's a unique period in New England known as "stick season."

This transitional time, marked by the absence of leaves and the anticipation of winter, serves as the evocative setting for Noah Kahan's deeply reflective song, naturally titled, "Stick Season."

In this blog post, we'll delve into the rich tapestry of lyrics and themes that Kahan weaves throughout the track, exploring how he captures the essence of change, nostalgia, and the passage of time.

Join us as we unpack the emotional depth and lyrical nuances of "Stick Season," and discover why this song resonates so profoundly with listeners navigating their own seasons of life.

Stick Season Lyrics

[Verse 1]

As you promised me that I was more than all the miles combined

You must've had yourself a change of heart like halfway through the drive

Because your voice trailed off exactly as you passed my exit sign

Kept on driving straight and left our future to the right

Now I am stuck between my anger and the blame that I can't face

And memories are somethin' even smoking weed does not replace

And I am terrified of weather 'cause I see you when it rains

Doc told me to travel, but there's covid on the planes

[Chorus]

And I love Vermont, but it's the season of the sticks

And I saw your mom, she forgot that I existed

And it's half my fault, but I just like to play the victim

I'll drink alcohol 'til my friends come home for Christmas

And I'll dream each night of some version of you

That I might not have, but I did not lose

Now you're tire tracks and one pair of shoes

And I'm split in half, but that'll have to do

[Verse 2]

So I thought that if I piled something good on all my bad

That I could cancel out the darkness I inherited from Dad

No, I am no longer funny 'cause I miss the way you laugh

You once called me "forever," now you still can't call me back

[Chorus]

And I love Vermont, but it's the season of the sticks

And I saw your mom, she forgot that I existed

And it's half my fault, but I just like to play the victim

I'll drink alcohol 'til my friends come home for Christmas

And I'll dream each night of some version of you

That I might not have, but I did not lose

Now you're tire tracks and one pair of shoes

And I'm split in half, but that'll have to do

[Bridge]

Oh, that'll have to do

My other half was you

I hope this pain's just passing through, but I doubt it

[Chorus]

And I love Vermont, but it's the season of the sticks

And I saw your mom, she forgot that I existed

And it's half my fault, but I just like to play the victim

I'll drink alcohol 'til my friends come home for Christmas

And I'll dream each night of some version of you

That I might not have, but I did not lose

Now you're tire tracks and one pair of shoes

And I'm split in half, but that'll have to do

Have to do

Stick Season Analysis

Noah Kahan's song "Stick Season" is a poignant exploration of change, loss, and the passage of time, set against the backdrop of a New England autumn.

As mentioned, the term "stick season" refers to the period in late fall after the leaves have fallen but before the first snowfall, a time that evokes a sense of barrenness and transition.

Lyrically, the song captures the feeling of being in a liminal space, both physically and emotionally. Kahan’s introspective lyrics delve into themes of nostalgia, longing, and the bittersweet nature of memory.

The imagery of bare trees and a landscape in flux serves as a metaphor for personal transformation and the inevitable changes that life brings.

Musically, "Stick Season" features a blend of folk and indie elements, with acoustic instrumentation that complements the reflective tone of the lyrics.

Kahan’s vocal delivery is heartfelt and raw, adding an authentic emotional layer to the song. The arrangement is relatively sparse, allowing the listener to focus on the storytelling and the evocative imagery.

In Conclusion

Overall, "Stick Season" by Noah Kahan is a beautifully crafted song that resonates with listeners through its universal themes and vivid depiction of a specific time and place.

It highlights Noah Kahan's ability to convey deep emotions and create a strong sense of atmosphere through his music.

If you like music like this, we recommend our indie music playlist here.

Until next time, fellow music fans!