Six Feet Apart

Alec Benjamin's song 'Six Feet Apart' poignantly captures the emotional turmoil and longing experienced during times of enforced separation, particularly resonant during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lyrics delve into the pain of being physically close yet emotionally distant from loved ones, a sentiment many can relate to in an era of social distancing and quarantine. The song opens with a reflection on the relativity of distance, emphasizing how even a short physical separation can feel insurmountable when it involves people we care deeply about. This sets the stage for the recurring theme of isolation and the struggle to cope with it.

The metaphor of the 'elephant in the room' represents the omnipresent and unavoidable reality of the pandemic, which has disrupted normal life and relationships. Benjamin's yearning to be close to someone who is just 'right outside my window' but unreachable highlights the cruel irony of being so near yet so far. This imagery is powerful, evoking a sense of helplessness and frustration that many have felt during lockdowns and social distancing measures. The chorus, with its repetition of 'six feet apart,' underscores the physical and emotional distance that has become a defining feature of our times.

The song also touches on the concept of time and space, suggesting that these dimensions are intertwined and have a profound impact on our emotional state. The idea of building a time machine to return to a pre-pandemic world reflects a deep desire to escape the current reality and reclaim a sense of normalcy. The comparison of a loved one to a distant star in the cosmos further emphasizes the beauty and unattainability of human connection in these challenging times. 'Six Feet Apart' is a heartfelt expression of longing, love, and the hope for a future where we can once again be close to those we cherish.