Heaven or Los Angeles

Boh Doran's song "Heaven or Los Angeles" paints a vivid picture of the dichotomy between dreams and reality in the city of Los Angeles. The protagonist moves to the city, leaving behind a conventional life symbolized by the 'white picket life.' She arrives with high hopes, seeking a 'shiny life,' but quickly finds herself in a world where appearances can be deceiving. The lyrics describe her initial experiences, from crashing on a couch to mingling with seemingly divine people at rooftop parties. However, the glamour is superficial, and she feels out of place, as if she should be wearing camouflage.

The chorus, with its reference to 'addicts and saints,' captures the essence of Los Angeles as a place of extremes. It's a city where people are either chasing their dreams or succumbing to their vices. The 'keepers of secrets' and the 'gates of Heaven or Los Angeles' suggest that the city holds the power to either fulfill or shatter dreams. The protagonist is encouraged to share her dreams, but the underlying message is that the city can be both a paradise and a hell, depending on one's perspective and experiences.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's journey becomes more complex. She finds herself in a cycle of fleeting friendships and romantic encounters, trying to fill a void with parties and superficial connections. The lyrics 'small fish in a sea of barbies' and 'bright eyes fade into jaded nights' highlight the disillusionment that often accompanies the pursuit of fame and success in Los Angeles. Despite the challenges, there's a sense of hope and resilience, as the protagonist continues to strive for her dreams, even if it means navigating the city's dual nature of 'Heaven or Los Angeles.'