Dear Child (I've Been Dying to Reach You)

Anthony Green's song "Dear Child (I've Been Dying to Reach You)" is a poignant exploration of longing, connection, and the emotional distance that can exist between people. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone trying desperately to reach out to a loved one, symbolized by the repeated metaphor of an extension cord that just won't reach far enough. This imagery suggests a sense of frustration and helplessness, as the speaker's efforts to connect are continually thwarted by physical or emotional barriers.

The song opens with a scene of movement and transition, as the speaker observes someone taking off their shoes and letting the shore tide take them in. This could symbolize a moment of vulnerability or a new beginning, but the speaker feels weary and not quite ready for this change. The repeated line "In this short time, we've been treading air" suggests a sense of stagnation or lack of progress, as if they are stuck in a liminal space, unable to move forward or make meaningful contact.

Throughout the song, the speaker's attempts to reach the other person are met with obstacles. The flashing indicator light serves as a metaphor for hope and persistence, signaling that the speaker is still trying, still waiting for a connection. The reference to a "coma, sleepless dancing" evokes a sense of being trapped in a state of suspended animation, where time passes but nothing changes. Ultimately, the song captures the deep yearning for connection and the pain of feeling distant from someone you care about, despite your best efforts to bridge the gap.