Swim

Alec Benjamin's song 'Swim' delves into the depths of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that accompanies it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who feels overwhelmed by their feelings, likening their emotional state to being lost at sea. The metaphor of swimming is used to represent the relentless effort and hope that the protagonist invests in trying to win the love of someone who remains distant. The repeated line, 'I'm just gonna swim until you love me,' underscores the persistence and desperation that often accompany unreciprocated affection.

The imagery of being underwater and struggling to breathe captures the suffocating nature of longing and loneliness. The protagonist's wish to 'breathe underwater' symbolizes a desire to adapt to the painful situation, even though it feels unnatural and difficult. The mention of 'another 40 days' lost at sea suggests a prolonged period of emotional struggle, emphasizing the endurance required to cope with such heartache. This biblical reference to 40 days also hints at a period of trial and tribulation, further deepening the sense of suffering and hope for eventual salvation.

Alec Benjamin's soft, emotive vocal delivery enhances the song's poignant message, making the listener feel the weight of the protagonist's emotions. The repetition of the word 'swim' throughout the song creates a rhythmic, almost hypnotic effect, mirroring the endless cycle of hope and despair that characterizes unrequited love. 'Swim' is a powerful exploration of the lengths to which one might go in the pursuit of love, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles.