The meaning of Once More To See You by Mitski

Mitski Miyawaki, known monolithically as Mitski, is an American singer-songwriter and musician. Having made her name with her distinct brand of indie rock and incisive lyrical content, Mitski's song "Once More to See You" from her 2016 album "Puberty 2" is a testament to her ability to infuse depth and meaning into her subtle compositions.

"Once More to See You" is an elegant, understated and emotionally stirring track. This song reflects Mitski’s longing for an elusive affection and her desire for both visibility and invisibility within a complex relationship. This encompasses the often conflicted feelings that can exist within intimate connections. The song is a beautiful narrative of longing, melancholy, and a deep yearning for connection, wrapped in the package of Mitski’s soothing voice and ethereal musicality.

The opening lines of the song depict Mitski's intense longing for a romantic interest. She sings "If I could see you", revealing a sense of desperation and an earnest desire for close interaction. As the song progresses, her gentleness in the delivery of some of the more emotionally poignant lyrics contradicts and yet highlights the intense feelings beneath the surface. This further underscores her profound longing and helps shed light on the complexity of her emotional state.

There is a distinct exploration of the complexities of visibility in "Once More to See You". Mitski navigates the challenging prospect of wanting to be seen by someone else, yet feeling as though that visibility may come at a cost. She sings about wanting to see her partner at least one more time even if nobody sees them together, raising important questions about identity, confidentiality, and the shadows lingering in the corners of romantic relationships.

In a broader sense, Mitski's "Once More to See You" opens a conversation about the multi-faceted nature of love and relationships. She explores the sometimes bittersweet reality of allowing oneself to be vulnerable and transparent within such connections. It is a deeply personal and reflective song that resonates on several levels with listeners, proving yet again, Mitski's prowess as a songwriter and musician.

The intricacies of relationships and romantic feelings are seldom straightforward, and Mitski beautifully delves into these complexities in "Once More to See You". The song offers up the wistful aspect of longing, exploring visibility within relationships, while seamlessly highlighting the sometimes hidden depths of emotional longing. This makes "Once More to See You" a truly engaging track from Mitski's impressive body of work.

All embedded within indelible music motifs, Mitski's profound lyricism comes to the fore in "Once More to See You". The emotional charge of her words touches listeners on many levels, making the song more than just a composition, but a conversation about enduring human emotions. This piece represents the mastery Mitski has over her craft and the delight she continues to offer her growing fan base.