Katie Chrobot
This past Friday, October 2, Noah Kahan released yet another heartbreaking folk-pop track entitled “Draw You Out.” Fans had been speculating for months that he might have a song featured in the upcoming Hunger Games film, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, arriving in theatres on November 20. However, many fans were still shocked when he revealed that there was, in fact, some validity to these rumors.
Kahan’s sound is absolutely perfect for a franchise such as the Hunger Games, and his ability to write and perform utterly gut-wrenching songs is put to good use on this newest release. From the heavy themes and stripped-back vocals to Aaron Dessner’s signature, heart-tugging production, “Draw You Out” may just be one of Kahan’s most heartbreaking releases yet.
The song is written from the perspective of Haymitch Abernathy, a fan-favorite Hunger Games character whom many know as Katniss Everdeen’s alcoholic mentor. Although Haymitch was already a beloved character, Sunrise on the Reaping reveals that he is so much more than the drunk he is originally thought to be, and Kahan truly could not have captured his narrative any better. Sunrise on the Reaping is the story of Haymitch’s own Hunger Games, and anyone who has read the novel already knows that it is not a happy tale. “Draw You Out” reflects Haymitch’s feelings for his girlfriend in the story, Lenore Dove, and how her memory continues to comfort him throughout the rest of his life.
“It feels good to say your name, it’s all I have now”
~ Noah Kahan, “Draw You Out”
The lyric above, one that was teased before the song’s release on streaming, captures the track’s central theme beautifully and left many fans heartbroken before the track was even released. Anyone who has experienced a heavy loss in the past will likely relate to this track, as it draws from Kahan’s own experiences while also reflecting Haymitch’s struggles. This is one of the reasons why the track translates as so devastating: it is fully realistic and extremely relatable.
Those familiar with the book and what’s to come in the film can likely see where Kahan draws inspiration from on this track, with his very intentional lyrics that clearly capture the story’s essence. They highlight the importance of Haymitch’s relationship with Lenore Dove as well as the lasting impact it had on him and his future. Even for those who’s only knowledge of the character comes from the prior films in the Hunger Games franchise, knowing how everything turns out for Haymitch in the end still makes the track all the more heartbreaking.
Kahan has once again captured fans’ full attention with this track, and listeners can’t help but hope there will be more heartbreaking Hunger Games tracks to come. Kahan is known for proving just how much you can say in a song, and “Draw You Out” says a lot. Through lyrics that encapsulate heartache, grief, love, and longing, Kahan once again captures all the important details of this narrative in under five minutes.
