When I Die

Beirut's song 'When I Die' delves into the profound and often contemplative theme of mortality. The lyrics reflect a desire to approach death with a sense of lightness and readiness, as expressed in the opening lines, 'When I die, I want to travel light.' This suggests a wish to leave behind the burdens of life and embrace the unknown with a clear conscience. The mention of catching a satellite could symbolize a journey to the afterlife or a higher plane of existence, indicating a sense of hope and transcendence.

The song also touches on the transformation that comes with facing one's mortality. The line 'When I'm fine, I become a different man' implies that coming to terms with death can lead to a significant personal change. The imagery of 'distances and abandoned light' evokes a sense of isolation and the passage of time, while 'passing forces did collide into her arms of rot' suggests an inevitable return to the earth and the natural cycle of life and death. Despite these somber themes, the repeated refrain 'I feel right' conveys a sense of acceptance and peace with the concept of death.

Beirut's musical style, often characterized by its eclectic instrumentation and melancholic yet uplifting melodies, complements the introspective nature of the lyrics. The song's exploration of death is not morbid but rather a thoughtful meditation on the end of life and the possibility of renewal. By confronting the inevitability of death, the song encourages listeners to find solace and perhaps even a sense of rightness in the face of the unknown.