Obviously that's just a metaphor, but the early season was plagued with struggles for Mercedes and Hamilton.
Spain proved to be more fruitful for the team, but form at Monaco, Spa and Monza dictated the story of 2022.
Hamilton has since reflected on the season, in an interview on Mercedes' website. He said: "The first big step was Barcelona, that was our first hint of there being more potential in the car.
"It turned out to be a bit of a false positive (because) the car was good there, but then the races afterwards were difficult.
“It was like a ghost was in the car and it kept coming back, but then there was France and that felt like a good step with our first double podium of the season.
"And then there was Austin, too, with the update we had working well."
There are certainly positives to take into 2023 for Mercedes, but it's clear more consistency is needed.
Looking ahead, Hamilton believes the new year will offer a fresh opportunity for people to come together.
“These last few years have been so difficult for so many; so many people struggling with the war and many other things," he said.
"I hope something kicks us all into gear to understand that we need to be more compassionate and caring to each other, and I am praying for that all the time."
On his and Mercedes' chances in 2023, Hamilton was as optimistic as ever. “A new year to be better," he said. "And another chance to fight for a World Championship."
