The meaning of Ognissanti Hymn by The Decemberists

The Ognissanti Hymn by The Decemberists is a hauntingly beautiful song that weaves together themes of mortality, faith, and the fleeting nature of human existence.

Composed by Colin Meloy, the lead vocalist and primary songwriter for the indie folk-rock band, the Ognissanti Hymn takes its name from the Italian Benedictine monastery Santa Maria degli Ognissanti in Florence. The song's lyrics are inspired by the 13th-century poem "The Ikon of St. Francis" by Thomas of Celano, which tells the story of the life and death of Saint Francis of Assisi.

The song begins with a gentle, lilting melody, accompanied by Meloy's soaring vocals as he sings about the transience of human life. The lyrics are infused with a sense of longing and resignation, as the narrator reflects on the brevity of our time on earth and the inevitability of death. The chorus, with its repetition of the phrase "And we'll meet again in the land of the dead," serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of all things.

Throughout the song, Meloy's lyrics are richly textured, drawing on imagery from the natural world to convey the fragility and beauty of human existence. The reference to "the last leaf falling" is particularly striking, serving as a powerful metaphor for the way in which our lives can be quietly extinguished, leaving behind only memories and regret.

Despite its themes of mortality and loss, the Ognissanti Hymn is ultimately a song about hope and faith. The narrator's acceptance of his own mortality is tempered by a sense of trust in the unknown, as he looks forward to meeting again with loved ones beyond the grave. The song's final moments are characterized by a sense of peaceful resignation, as Meloy's vocals fade into the distance, leaving behind only the faintest hint of longing.

Overall, the Ognissanti Hymn is a masterpiece of introspective songwriting, one that invites listeners to reflect on their own mortality and the fleeting nature of human existence. With its haunting beauty and poignant lyrics, it's a song that will stay with you long after the music has faded away.