Try to Remember

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of a yearning for a simpler, more idyllic past, specifically a "tender and callow" September. The narrator urges the listener to "try to remember" this time when life felt "slow and oh, so mellow," contrasting it with the present. This initial evocation of a golden, almost pastoral memory sets a wistful tone, suggesting a significant departure from that perceived golden age. The central tension lies in the cyclical nature of time and memory, particularly the contrast between the warmth of September and the cold of December. While September represents a time of ease and vibrant life ("grass was green, and grain was yellow"), December brings a stark reality, hinted at by the inevitable "snow will follow." The lyrics suggest that remembering the past isn't just a pleasant pastime; it's a necessity to combat the emptiness of the present, stating "without a hurt the heart is hollow." The most striking craft element is the persistent repetition of "Try to remember" and "Deep in December it's nice to remember," which acts as a mantra. This repetition emphasizes the act of recollection itself as the core theme. The structure, moving from the active "try to remember" to the more reflective "it's nice to remember," mirrors the passage of time and the shift in emotional need. The instruction to "follow" at the end of each verse implies that this remembered feeling or state of being is something to be pursued or perhaps to guide present actions. Ultimately, these lyrics resonate because they tap into a universal human desire to recapture lost innocence and peace. The carefully chosen imagery of seasonal change serves as a powerful metaphor for life's ups and downs. By framing memory not just as a passive recollection but as an active imperative, the song suggests that holding onto the essence of those mellow September days is crucial for maintaining emotional fullness, especially when facing the harshness that December brings.