what does season of the sticks mean?

TLDR: The "Season of the Sticks" refers to a transitional period in Vermont between autumn and winter, characterized by bare trees and a gray landscape. Popularized by Noah Kahan's song "Stick Season," it serves as a metaphor for personal desolation, emotional transition, and introspection, resonating with broader themes of change and growth.

The "Season of the Sticks" is a term that describes a specific time in Vermont, typically from mid-October to early December, when the vibrant colors of autumn fade and the landscape becomes bare and gray. This period, while seemingly bleak, holds cultural significance for locals and symbolizes the unique seasonal transitions of the region. Noah Kahan's song "Stick Season" has brought this term into wider recognition, using it as a metaphor for personal desolation and emotional turmoil following a breakup.

In Kahan's music, the "Season of the Sticks" reflects a time of waiting and introspection, capturing the feelings of emptiness and loneliness that accompany significant life changes. The metaphor resonates universally, as many people experience similar transitional phases marked by uncertainty and growth. Ultimately, Kahan's portrayal of this season emphasizes that while change can be challenging, it also presents opportunities for personal development and self-discovery.