Meaning of New Feeling by Talking Heads

The Talking Heads' song titled 'New Feeling' is a composition that delves into various themes that can be experienced throughout life. At its core, the song seems to explore the idea of personal growth and change. As the title suggests, it evokes a sense of novelty and transformation, capturing the essence of moving forward and leaving behind the past. The lyrics express a yearning to reconnect with others, to relive old experiences, and to navigate through the complexities of human relationships.One standout lyric in the song is "I go visiting, I talk loud, I try to make myself clear, in front of a face that's nearer than it's ever been before, not this close before, nearer than before, not this close before." This line hints at the desire for genuine communication, the longing to bridge the emotional gap between individuals. It explores the idea that even when we are physically close to someone, truly understanding and empathizing with them can feel quite distant. The theme here revolves around the human need for connection and the ongoing struggle to overcome the barriers we encounter in our relationships.Another compelling lyric is "It is a million years ago, I hear music and it sounds like bells, I feel like my head is high, I wish I could meet everyone, meet them all over again, bring them up to my room, meet them all over again, everyone's up in my room." These words evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for the past, while also reflecting on personal growth. The idea of wanting to revisit and rediscover old friendships and experiences speaks to the human desire for self-reflection, for exploring the many facets of our identity, and for finding renewed appreciation in the connections we once had. The theme that emerges from this lyric centers around the importance of cherishing and valuing our past while continuously seeking personal growth and new experiences.The line "And now I'm busy again, I feel like sitting down, but I'm still thinking about my friends, in my guarded moments" offers a glimpse into the inner thoughts and conflicting emotions that are often a part of our lives. It touches upon the need for solitude, for moments where we retreat into ourselves and contemplate our relationships. The theme that arises from this specific lyric is the idea of balancing the demands of the external world with our own introspection. It explores the ebb and flow of personal growth, the importance of taking the time to reflect on our relationships, and finding a balance between our own needs and the needs of others.Lastly, the lyric "Speaking about my friends, now I'm speaking out, thinking about my friends" reveals the journey of self-expression and vocalizing one's thoughts and emotions. It suggests a renewed sense of confidence and assertiveness in sharing one's feelings openly. The theme that emerges is the transformative power of communication and the significance of expressing oneself authentically. It underscores the importance of voicing our thoughts, feelings, and desires within our relationships, ultimately fostering deeper connections and understanding.In essence, 'New Feeling' by the Talking Heads encapsulates a range of themes that revolve around personal growth, nostalgia, the quest for connection, and the transformative power of communication. Each standout lyric contributes to these themes by exploring the complexities of relationships and the journey individuals take to move forward while honoring their past. This song serves as a poignant reminder that our growth and understanding of ourselves and others is perpetually evolving, and it encourages us to embrace new beginnings and perspectives while valuing the foundations that shape our lives.