Released: 2024
“Next Semester” by Twenty One Pilots dives into the emotional turmoil and anticipation of change that comes with the end of a challenging period, signified here as a semester. It’s a reflective piece on the struggles of the past while looking towards the hope of starting fresh, layered with the band’s characteristic introspective lyricism and an infectious melody that underscores the push-and-pull between despair and hope.
The song kicks off with a barrage of “No-no-no,” setting a tone of rejection and denial, which could symbolize the protagonist’s refusal to accept their current situation or perhaps their dread of what’s to come. “Stand up straight now”, “Can’t break down”, “Graduate now” speak to societal pressures and expectations to succeed and move forward, even when one feels utterly misplaced and wishes nothing more than to escape from their current predicament. This sense of being trapped is amplified by the repetition of “I don’t wanna be here”, highlighting a deep-seated feeling of discomfort and alienation.
The lyrics then shift to a more introspective mood with “It’s a taste test of what I hate less”, suggesting a trial-and-error approach to coping with life’s challenges, trying to figure out which of the less painful options to take. The question “Can you die of anxiousness?” captures the overwhelming sense of anxiety that can consume one’s being, making life seem unbearable. This internal battle is further illustrated through vivid visuals of being lost and seeking guidance, as seen in the lines about remembering the yellow dashes in the street and praying those lights would take them home.
There’s a turning point when the protagonist recalls a memory of being in potential danger in the street and being snapped back to reality by someone telling them to “get out of the road!” It’s a metaphorical slap in the face, a moment of clarity amidst the chaos, signaling a need for change. This idea is encapsulated in the refrain “Can’t change what you’ve done, Start fresh next semester”, a powerful message about acceptance, forgiveness, and the possibility of new beginnings. Despite past failings or hardships, there’s always an opportunity to reset and begin anew with the coming of a new semester or a new phase in life.
The song concludes on a somewhat hopeful note, reinforcing the theme of renewal and moving forward despite the taste test of hardships. The final lines, “Start fresh with a new year”, suggest a resolution to embrace change and the possibility that, despite the struggle, there is a chance to start over and find a path that feels right. It’s a universal message of resilience and hope delivered through a blend of evocative lyrics and compelling melodies, characteristic of Twenty One Pilots’ unique ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
