Ours To Keep: Unraveling the Heartfelt Lyrics of a Beloved Song

For fans of the indie-folk duo, The Lumineers, the song "Ours To Keep" is more than just a catchy tune - it's a poignant reflection of the human experience. Written by Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites, the song's lyrics weave a tale of love, loss, and the impermanence of life. In this article, we'll dive deep into the heartfelt lyrics of "Ours To Keep," exploring the themes, symbolism, and personal stories that make this song a timeless classic.

The Birth of a Song

According to Schultz, the song was inspired by a series of events in his life, including the loss of his mother and a relationship that had ended. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Schultz shared, "I was trying to make sense of these events, and I wrote this song as a way to process them." The result was a song that would become a fan favorite and a staple of The Lumineers' live shows.

One of the key elements of "Ours To Keep" is its use of symbolism. The lyrics are peppered with references to nature, including the sun, the ocean, and the mountains. These symbols serve as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the impermanence of things. As Schultz explained in an interview with Billboard, "I'm a big believer in the idea that we're all just temporary visitors on this earth, and that's what makes life so precious."

Themes of Love and Loss

At its core, "Ours To Keep" is a song about love and loss. The lyrics tell the story of a relationship that has come to an end, and the speaker is left to pick up the pieces. The song's chorus, "We will be our own stars / We will be our own sun," is a poignant expression of the human desire to hold onto love, even in the face of adversity.

But "Ours To Keep" is more than just a love song. It's also a song about loss and grief. The lyrics are filled with references to the passing of time, the impermanence of things, and the pain of letting go. As Schultz noted in an interview with NPR, "The song is about the idea that we're all going to lose the people we love, and that's just a fact of life."

The Power of Storytelling

One of the key elements of "Ours To Keep" is its use of storytelling. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and personal anecdotes, making it feel like the listener is being let in on a secret. As Schultz explained in an interview with The Guardian, "I'm a big believer in the power of storytelling, and I think that's what makes songwriting so powerful."

But the song's storytelling isn't just about conveying a message - it's also about creating a sense of intimacy and connection with the listener. The lyrics are often addressed directly to the listener, making it feel like the speaker is sharing a secret with them. This creates a sense of closeness and vulnerability, which is a hallmark of great songwriting.

The Musicality of "Ours To Keep"

The musicality of "Ours To Keep" is just as important as its lyrics. The song features a simple, yet haunting melody, accompanied by a driving rhythm section and Schultz's soaring vocals. The result is a song that feels both intimate and anthemic.

According to Fraites, the song's musicality was a key part of its development. In an interview with Pitchfork, Fraites noted, "We were experimenting with different sounds and textures, and we stumbled upon this haunting melody that just felt right." The result was a song that would become a fan favorite and a staple of The Lumineers' live shows.

Conclusion: A Timeless Classic

"Ours To Keep" is more than just a song - it's a reflection of the human experience. Its heartfelt lyrics, symbolic language, and powerful storytelling make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners around the world. As Schultz noted in an interview with Rolling Stone, "I think that's the beauty of music - it has the power to transcend time and touch people in a way that nothing else can."

For fans of The Lumineers, "Ours To Keep" is a reminder of the band's ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. As we continue to grapple with the complexities of love, loss, and impermanence, "Ours To Keep" remains a powerful reminder of the human experience - and the music that helps us make sense of it all.