Song of the Moment: Thirteen by Big Star

Some would say that the song that most perfectly encapsulates the emotions of young, innocent love is "I Want to Hold Your Hand". And yes, for recreating the pure joy of a time when holding hands was the ultimate in human interaction, it cannot be topped. However, "Thirteen", from Big Star's debut album #1 Record explores a more complex emotional range in dealing with the same topic. 

It's possible that the melancholy lilt of the song originated because the protagonist wasn't holding hands with the object of his affection, but standing outside her window. In either case, the mood of the song now lends itself to a sense of nostalgia. Rather than celebrating this phase in our lives, "Thirteen" makes us weep for its passing.