Wild
Beach House
The Untamed Spirit of Youth in Beach House's 'Wild'
Beach House's song 'Wild' delves into the complexities of youth, freedom, and the often tumultuous relationships that define our early years. The lyrics open with a conversation between the narrator and their mother, hinting at familial instability and the consequences of reckless behavior. The mention of the father 'seeing double' suggests issues with alcohol or escapism, setting a tone of disarray and unpredictability that permeates the song.
The imagery of 'windy, endless spring' and 'black and gleaming' car hood evokes a sense of fleeting beauty and danger. Spring, often a metaphor for youth and new beginnings, is described as endless, suggesting a longing for the perpetual excitement and potential of youth. The car, a symbol of freedom and escape, is both alluring and ominous, reflecting the dual nature of the experiences the narrator is drawn to.
The chorus, with lines like 'The earth is wild' and 'You've got no time,' captures the urgency and intensity of living in the moment. The phrase 'Wild in our ways' underscores a sense of rebellion and nonconformity, while 'Heartless to say, go on pretending' hints at the emotional detachment and facade often maintained in the face of societal expectations. The closing lines, 'One chance to fall behind the lines that would not let you,' and 'Can I believe in how the past is what will catch you,' suggest a struggle with the inevitability of consequences and the inescapable nature of one's past.
Beach House, known for their dreamy, ethereal sound, uses these lyrics to paint a vivid picture of the wild, untamed spirit of youth. The song resonates with anyone who has felt the pull of freedom and the weight of expectations, capturing the bittersweet essence of growing up.