☝️ Key Points
- The song lyrics are about a family gathering in Montauk, a coastal town in New York.
- The protagonist has a close relationship with their fathers and wants to spend time with them.
- It is hinted that the protagonist cannot stay in Montauk forever, but hopes to stay for at least a while.
- The lyrics mention a deceased mother figure who is still present.
- The song addresses the importance of family, love, and loss.
Interpretation
"Montauk" by
Rufus Wainwright is a touching song lyrics that tells the story of a family gathering in Montauk. Montauk is a coastal town in New York known for its beauty and tranquility. The lyrics depict someone traveling there to meet their fathers.
The opening lines describe how the protagonist sees their fathers in unusual situations. For example, they see one father in a kimono and the other father cutting roses. Despite the strange imagery, the protagonist hopes they don't turn around and leave. It is evident that the protagonist has a close relationship with their fathers and wishes to spend time with them.
As the lyrics progress, it becomes clear that the protagonist cannot stay in Montauk forever. It is mentioned that they have to leave, but they hope to at least stay for a while. The lyrics also hint at one of the fathers feeling lonely at times, and the protagonist hopes to protect them and stay with them.
The lyrics end with a mention of a woman who has become a shadow and waits in the ocean. This could be an allusion to a deceased mother figure who is still present. It is also noted that everyone has to leave at some point, even though they would like to stay.
Overall, "Montauk" is an emotional song lyrics that explores the importance of family, love, and loss. It tells the story of a family coming together in a special setting and experiencing the ups and downs of life together.