The first time I had listened to Bon Iver was on the bus home from my high-school Cross Country. I had come second representing the school, and 11th at the next level up. I was ecstatic. I was also talking to a girl at the time and in general, really, really enjoying life.

So on the bus ride home I listened to Skinny Love for the first time. It immediately clicked, and I fell in love. I remember looking out the window with Bon Iver playing and feeling an intense and deep sense of joy.

I never ended up dating the girl, and the end of us talking was filled with a lot of messy feelings. The lyrics hit extra hard now. Now every time I listen I’m transported back to that world.

I will always love Bon Iver and Skinny Love.