Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: folk
Song Meaning of “Big Parade” by The Lumineers
“Big Parade” by The Lumineers is a song that speaks to the pain and disappointment of life’s unexpected hardships. Here, the narrator has fallen upon hard times and is finding his way through in the aftermath. The song begins plaintively, with a sparse instrumentation of only a guitar, vocals, and a plaintive cello melody. This creates a feeling of subtle longing and introspection.
Despite his struggles, the narrator takes courage and resolves to make the best of what he has. The chorus of “I’m gonna join that big parade” implies that he is joining together with everyone and not pitying himself for the cards he was dealt. The analogy of a parade signifies that he will persist and continue to march forward, bravely enduring his troubles, rather than letting them consume him.
The bridge of the song hints at the difficult decisions and inner turmoil the narrator goes through in order to receive his blessings. He knows deep down that the only way he can receive his blessings is by sacrificing and facing obstacles. While these decisions may seem high stakes and risky, the narrator is reminded to cherish each moment instead of worrying of what’s to come.
The song is ultimately a tribute to the overwhelming power of endurance. Despite the odds and pain he may endure, the narrator finds strength and is determined to march on, facing all his troubles that come. As these troubles pass, the narrator is reminded that he was made to survive and build something beautiful. The melody slowly begins to swell to a lush and soaring climax accompanied by a bright piano, replete with the message of hope and resilience.
The Lumineers capture the spirit of perseverance, reminding us to take our pain and use it to our advantage, trusting ourselves to make it through difficult times.