- The "hazy shade of winter" refers to a time of uncertainty, confusion, and difficulty. It symbolizes the complexity and ambiguity of the relationship.
- The mention of "misty light of dawn" suggests a sense of hope and a new beginning but, the line that follows it, "reflections in the ice of a world that was once green" conveys a feeling of loss, coldness, and a stark contrast between the past and present.
- The refrain "and spring became the summer, that I never meant to see" implies that the relationship has moved from a hopeful start (spring) to a difficult period (summer) that the person did not anticipate or desire.
- The lyrics reflect the protagonist's longing for a simpler time when things were easier, as indicated by the line, "I want to see you laughing, in the hazy sunshine of a summer day."
- The bridge section speaks of "dreams of you and I" and how the protagonist finds it hard to move on, hinting at lingering feelings and unresolved issues.
Overall, "Hazy Shade of Winter" encapsulates the rollercoaster of emotions and challenges faced in a relationship, with the "winter" representing the rough patch and the search for a brighter future.