Song meaning of Farewell by Arthur Rimbaud

The lyrics of the song "Farewell" by Arthur Rimbaud convey a message of reflection, transformation, and the pursuit of truth. The song captures a sense of disillusionment and longing for something brighter and divine, symbolized by the everlasting sun. The artist expresses a desire to distance oneself from the cyclical nature of human existence, where people die as the seasons change.

Autumn is depicted as a turning point, where the artist's boat emerges from a fog and heads towards poverty's harbor - a metaphorical representation of the city with its stained sky. Poverty, depicted by stinking rags and bread soaked with rain, becomes a detested memory, symbolizing the harsh realities faced by the artist.

The artist reflects on their past existence, where they were once a creator of feasts, triumphs, and dramas, trying to invent new things and believing in supernatural powers. However, they now bury their imagination and memories, realizing the end of their career as an artist and storyteller. They are sent back to the soil as a peasant, seeking some obligation and confronting the gnarled reality.

In this search, the artist contemplates the role of Charity, questioning if it is a sister of death. They acknowledge the need for forgiveness for living on lies and feel the absence of friendly hands and help.

Despite the harshness of the new era, the artist claims a victory in the fading of monstrous memories and departing longings. They emphasize the importance of being absolutely modern and holding onto steps once taken. The battle for the soul is equated to battles of men, but only God can find pleasure in justice.

Though the night may be hard, the artist encourages accepting new strength and real tenderness. At dawn, with glowing patience, they envision entering the cities of glory.

Ultimately, the artist renounces old love affairs and deceitful couples, having gone through women's Hell, and seeks to possess the truth within their body and soul. The lyrics convey a sense of transformation, growth, and the pursuit of an authentic existence.