The meaning of Sweetness Follows by R E M

R.E.M.'s "Sweetness Follows" is a standout track from their 1988 album Green, offering a glimpse into the band's signature blend of jangly guitars, introspective lyrics, and soaring vocal harmonies.

The song's title, "Sweetness Follows," sets the tone for a reflective and melancholic exploration of the human experience. Michael Stipe's distinctive vocals weave together snippets of memory, longing, and wisdom, as he sings about the fleeting nature of life's sweet moments. With lyrics like "We've got to get away / From these empty days" and "The sweetness follows / As I move through the haze," Stipe paints a vivid picture of a world where beauty is often overshadowed by the mundane.

Musically, "Sweetness Follows" showcases R.E.M.'s trademark atmospheric soundscapes, with Peter Buck's guitar work taking center stage. The song's arrangement is deceptively simple, featuring a gentle, lilting rhythm that belies the complexity of Stipe's poetic lyrics. As the track builds towards its climax, Mike Mills' bassline and Bill Berry's drums create a sense of tension, underscoring the emotional weight of Stipe's words.

Lyrically, "Sweetness Follows" is an exploration of the human condition, grappling with themes of impermanence, nostalgia, and the search for meaning. Stipe's introspective observations on life's fleeting moments are both poignant and relatable, making this song a fan favorite in R.E.M.'s extensive discography.

Throughout "Sweetness Follows," R.E.M. demonstrates their mastery of crafting songs that are at once personal and universal, inviting listeners to reflect on the beauty and fragility of human experience. As one of the band's most beloved tracks, it remains an integral part of their enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands in rock history.