The Waves

Bastille's song "The Waves" delves into the tumultuous and often chaotic experience of youth, capturing the essence of living in the moment while grappling with the consequences of one's actions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night filled with reckless abandon, where the characters are metaphorically staring down the barrel of a hundred tons, symbolizing the weight of their choices and the potential dangers they face. Despite the looming consequences, there's a sense of invincibility and a refusal to give up on the 'lost boy life,' a nod to the Peter Pan-like desire to remain young and carefree.

The recurring question, "Oh, what would your mother say if she could see what we're doing now?" serves as a poignant reminder of the disapproval and concern that often accompanies youthful rebellion. This line underscores the tension between the desire for freedom and the awareness of societal and familial expectations. The waves crashing down repeatedly symbolize the relentless challenges and pressures that come with this stage of life, yet there's an acceptance and even an embrace of these challenges, as seen in the lines "Get carried, get carried away" and "Caught up in the waves."

The song also touches on themes of existentialism and the search for meaning, as evidenced by the lines "Is it an apocalypse or nihilism on your lips?" This suggests a deeper contemplation of life's purpose amidst the chaos. The imagery of falling through the twilight zone and watching the party in slow motion evokes a sense of surrealism and disconnection, further highlighting the internal conflict between enjoying the present and questioning its significance. Ultimately, "The Waves" captures the essence of youthful exuberance, the struggle for identity, and the inevitable clash with reality, all set against the backdrop of a night that feels both endless and fleeting.