Meaning of “Strangers by Nature” by Adele

Adele's "Strangers By Nature" has been sweeping the hearts of many with its soul-soothing melody and melancholic lyrics. However, a deeper examination of the song reveals an unexpected theory. Could Adele's masterpiece be a metaphorical ode to the unpredictable nature of the weather, symbolizing the tumultuous journey of love and self-discovery, intertwined with other cultural and musical references? Let's dive in!

The opening lines of the song set the stage for this theory:

"I'll be taking flowers to the cemetery of my heart

For all of my lovers in the present and in the dark"

These words could be an allusion to the ever-changing weather patterns — sometimes unpredictable and tempestuous, like a dark storm cloud looming overhead. Just as the weather shifts, so do our emotions and experiences in love, leading us to mourn past lovers and relationships.

The cemetery represents a place of burial for lost connections, while the flowers are reminiscent of the beauty of new beginnings, just as a flower blooms after a rainstorm. This duality symbolizes the natural ebb and flow of life, much like the atmospheric fluctuations.

"Every anniversary I'll pay respects and say I'm sorry

For they never stood a chance as if they could"

These lines could also be compared to challenging weather conditions that are beyond our control. Much like the destructive force of hurricanes or typhoons, sometimes it feels like love is an unstoppable storm, leaving only devastation in its wake.

Now consider the lyrics:

"I've never seen the sky this colour before

It's like I'm noticing everything a little bit more"

Adele could be referring to a unique, unexpected weather phenomenon, such as a rare "blue moon" or an aurora display. These rare sky displays can evoke a sense of wonder, just as the possibility of new love leaves us in awe. Delving further into popular culture, the reference to unusual sky colours might bring to mind the Beatles' classic "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds," where vibrant colours and surreal imagery captured the essence of curiosity and imagination.

A compelling connection arises from the chorus:

"Strangers by nature

Strangers by nature"

These two simple lines can have a double meaning. First, the strangers could represent the uncertainty of the constantly shifting weather patterns. Like the weather, love can be as fickle as the wind, quickly changing direction without warning. Secondly, strangers may symbolize the first moment of encountering a new love interest, starting on new terrain, much like discovering a captivating weather phenomenon.

"Will I ever get there?

Oh, I hope that someday I'll learn

To nurture what I've done"

Finally, this line unveils the ultimate message of the song – the aspiration to understand and adapt to the unpredictable nature of human relationships, paralleled with the tumultuous nature of the weather itself. A classic example of this sentiment can be found in Bob Dylan's timeless song "Blowin' in the Wind," which describes the answer to life's mysteries being as elusive as windswept leaves.

In conclusion, Adele's "Strangers By Nature" transcends mere heartache, weaving in an elaborate metaphorical tapestry that represents the ever-changing emotions and experiences in love, akin to the world's capricious weather patterns. Whether this was the artist's original intention or not, one cannot deny the beauty in uncovering the intricate layers of meaning embedded within her verses.