Gold Medal Ribbon

Pierce The Veil's 'Gold Medal Ribbon' is a haunting exploration of love, loss, and the lingering presence of a departed loved one. The song opens with a plea for a sign from someone who has passed away, capturing the desperation and longing to reconnect. The narrator remembers the sound of their voice but not the specifics of their conversations, highlighting how memories can become fragmented over time. This sets the tone for a journey through grief and the search for solace in the remnants of a past relationship.

The lyrics are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery. The line 'I swear that I can hear you in the wind' suggests that the presence of the loved one is felt in the natural world, as if their spirit is still around, providing comfort. The mention of 'dancing in the halls outside again' evokes a sense of freedom and joy, contrasting with the narrator's current state of mourning. The recurring theme of listening underscores the narrator's constant vigilance for any sign or message from the departed, emphasizing the depth of their emotional connection.

The chorus introduces a surreal element with the idea of being sent 'off into space on this rocket invention,' symbolizing an escape from reality and the pain of loss. The reference to 'gold medal ribbon'—a flavor of ice cream—adds a touch of nostalgia and innocence, perhaps representing happier times shared with the loved one. However, the mention of 'self-sabotage, suffocation, and stale taste of blood' brings the listener back to the harsh reality of grief and the self-destructive tendencies that can accompany it. The song ultimately portrays a poignant struggle between holding on and letting go, capturing the complex emotions that come with losing someone dear.