Song Meaning
The lyrics paint a poignant picture of a love affair that mirrors the cycle of the seasons. It begins with the gentle arrival of April, a time of renewal and burgeoning affection, where the beloved, personified as 'she,' is welcomed. May offers a period of stable contentment, a peaceful 'resting in my arms again,' suggesting a comfortable and established connection.
However, this tranquility is fleeting, as the narrative quickly shifts to the restlessness of June, where 'she' prowls the night, hinting at a growing distance or dissatisfaction. July marks a swift departure, 'she will fly / And give no warning,' emphasizing the abrupt and unexpected end of this phase of the relationship. The imagery of flight suggests an irreversible leaving.
The descent into autumn brings a sense of decay and finality. August signifies the end, 'die she must,' under the harshness of 'chilly and cold' winds, a stark contrast to the earlier warmth. September is left with the melancholic task of remembrance, acknowledging that 'A love once new has now grown old,' a quiet resignation to loss and the passage of time.
The cyclical structure, returning to the imagery of April and May, underscores the narrator's longing for that initial, stable period of love. It’s a powerful evocation of how relationships, like nature, have their seasons of growth, bloom, decay, and eventual return, leaving the narrator to grapple with the memory of what was and the hope for its return.