On The Sea
Beach House
Navigating the Depths of Existence in 'On The Sea'
Beach House's song 'On The Sea' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of existential themes, wrapped in the band's signature dream-pop sound. The lyrics evoke a sense of drifting and searching, both physically and spiritually. The opening lines, 'Out on the sea we'd be forgiven / Our bodies stopped, the spirit leaving,' suggest a journey or escape, perhaps from the burdens of life or the constraints of the physical world. This imagery of the sea as a place of forgiveness and release sets the tone for the introspective journey that follows.
The song delves into themes of identity and legacy with lines like 'Somebody's child / Nobody made you / It's not what you stole / It's what they gave you.' These lyrics reflect on the idea that our identities are shaped not just by our actions but by the influences and gifts we receive from others. The mention of 'silence' and 'soul' hints at a deeper, almost spiritual contemplation of one's place in the world and the impact of our existence.
As the song progresses, it touches on the inevitability of time and fate. 'In hind of sight no peace of mind / Where you begin and I'm defined' speaks to the interconnectedness of our lives and the often elusive nature of peace and understanding. The imagery of shadows bending and the world swallowing the narrator suggests a surrender to the vast, uncontrollable forces of life. The closing lines, 'Whistle to a friend / Gentle till the end,' offer a glimmer of hope and connection, emphasizing the importance of companionship and kindness even in the face of life's uncertainties.