Baby
Beach House
The Fleeting Nature of Youth and Choices in 'Baby' by Beach House
Beach House's song 'Baby' delves into the ephemeral nature of youth and the choices that define our lives. The lyrics paint a picture of a carefree individual, referred to as 'Baby,' who is enjoying life and believes himself to be unique and exceptional. This sense of invincibility and self-importance is a common sentiment during youth, where one often feels like the center of the universe. The line 'He'll go down the rest of them' suggests that despite feeling special, Baby is ultimately just another person who will face the same fate as everyone else, highlighting the inevitable passage of time and the humbling nature of life.
The recurring mention of April and May symbolizes the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. These months are often associated with spring, a time of renewal and new beginnings, yet they also signify the relentless march of time. The mundane tasks of sweeping the floor and putting away clothes serve as metaphors for the routine and often overlooked aspects of life that continue regardless of one's personal experiences or feelings of significance. These lines ground the song in a sense of reality, contrasting with Baby's initial sense of fun and exceptionality.
The song also touches on the theme of choices and their consequences. 'Baby had to choose' implies a pivotal moment where a decision had to be made, and now Baby is 'on the wall,' possibly suggesting a state of being judged or remembered for that choice. The question 'Can you make a judgement call?' invites the listener to reflect on their own decisions and the judgments they pass on others. This introspective element adds depth to the song, encouraging a contemplation of one's own life and the fleeting nature of youth.