Meaning of Northern Attitude by Noah Kahan

The song "Northern Attitude" by Noah Kahan is a deep and introspective piece of art that explores the complexities of life, relationships, and self-discovery. The song's overall theme revolves around the idea of forgiveness and acceptance, both for oneself and for others. Through its poignant lyrics and evocative melody, "Northern Attitude" takes listeners on an emotional journey that delves into the various challenges and experiences that shape our perspectives and attitudes. Let's delve into some of the standout lyrics and the themes each one helps develop, all of which tie back to the overarching theme of the song.One of the standout lyrics in the song is, "You build a boat, you build a life." This line carries the theme of resilience and the idea that we have to actively construct our paths in life. It highlights the importance of taking accountability for our actions and decisions while acknowledging that our choices can shape our ultimate fate. This theme ties back to the overall theme of forgiveness, as it encourages self-forgiveness for the mistakes made along the way.Another impactful line in the song is, "You lose your friends, you lose your wife." This lyric touches upon the theme of loss and the profound effect it can have on our lives. It explores the pain of losing important relationships, illustrating how these experiences contribute to the development of an individual's attitude. The theme of forgiveness is present here, as moving on from loss often requires forgiving oneself and others for the part they played in the outcome.The line, "Scared to live, scared to die," delves into the theme of fear and its influence on our attitudes. It explores the internal struggles of uncertainty and the impact it has on our outlook on life. This theme intertwines with the overarching theme of forgiveness, as the fear of making mistakes can hinder our ability to forgive ourselves and others.The repetition of the phrase, "Forgive my northern attitude," and the reference to being raised in the cold bring a unique element to the song. It presents the idea that one's upbringing and environment can mold their attitude and approach to life. This theme explores the notion that individuals from colder climates may develop resilience and a guarded demeanor, which in turn affects their ability to forgive. It suggests that forgiveness may not come naturally to those with a "northern attitude."Moreover, the lines, "You're getting lost, you're getting high," delve into the theme of escapism and the various ways people seek solace in challenging times. It brings attention to the fact that some individuals resort to harmful habits or distractions as a means to cope with the difficulties of life. This theme intertwines with forgiveness, as it hints at the need to forgive ourselves for seeking temporary relief, even if it may not be the healthiest option.Overall, "Northern Attitude" encompasses a myriad of themes that collectively express the complexities of human emotion, resilience, loss, fear, and forgiveness. The song prompts introspection and encourages listeners to explore their own attitudes and approaches towards forgiveness. It serves as a reminder that understanding and accepting our own imperfections and the imperfections of others is a significant step toward personal growth and emotional well-being. Through its heartfelt lyrics and captivating melody, "Northern Attitude" embraces the multifaceted nature of humanity and the ever-present struggle to forgive.