William

“Forward Comes the Sky” is a deeply moving and tragic song that tells the story of a young boy named William, who is metaphorically referred to as the “son of the sky.” William’s life is marked by hardship, poverty, and the trauma of living with an abusive father who is violent towards his mother. Despite his mother’s efforts to protect him, the weight of his circumstances becomes too much for him to bear.

The song begins with William waking up to a familiar scene of domestic strife. His mother, burdened by pain and fear, prepares breakfast (half-filled cup, signalling there wasn’t enough money for more milk) but avoids eye contact, indicating the ongoing tension and abuse in their household. William senses the recurring cycle of violence and feels trapped, unable to continue pretending that everything is okay.

The refrain “Spread my wings like I could fly” symbolizes William’s yearning for escape and freedom from his oppressive environment. He dreams of breaking free from his painful reality, but the rain falling into his eyes, like teardrops, signifies his deep sorrow and helplessness.
As the song progresses, William’s desperation intensifies. He decides to flee, storming down the road in a frantic attempt to escape his life. His trembling hands and aching mind reflect his inner turmoil and the overwhelming voices in his head urging him to find a way out.

In a tragic turn of events, William is run over my a speeding car, leading to his untimely death. The sky, which has been a symbol of his longing for freedom, now comes forward to embrace him. This moment signifies his release from earthly suffering and his return to the sky, where he can finally find peace.
The song’s climax is a reflection on letting go and finding solace in the afterlife. William’s final moments are marked by a sense of resignation and acceptance, as he sits in his mother’s chair, making a vow to let go of his pain and hoping that her pain will also end with his. The imagery of heaven and earth staring at him underscores the significance of his journey and the impact of his tragic fate.