Berkeley's Breathing

Emily Kinney's song "Berkeley's Breathing" captures the essence of restless nights and the emotional turbulence that comes with them. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of sleeplessness, where the protagonist is wide awake, waiting for a call that seems inevitable. The phrase "Berkeley's been breathing since the first time we've met" suggests a continuous, almost haunting presence of a place or a memory that keeps the protagonist awake. This line could symbolize the lingering impact of a significant encounter or relationship that has left a lasting impression on her life.

The imagery of "back seats and salt stings the air crisp and breezy" and "car key hotel room" evokes a sense of transient, fleeting moments that are both intimate and ephemeral. These lines suggest a lifestyle or a series of encounters that are spontaneous and perhaps lacking in deeper emotional connection. The protagonist's willingness to keep her door unlocked at night and the ease with which she invites someone in reflects a sense of vulnerability and openness, despite the emotional cost it may bring.

The repeated mention of an "unfinished song" serves as a metaphor for unresolved feelings and incomplete experiences. The protagonist acknowledges the lessons learned and the emotional scars left behind, yet there is a sense of acceptance and resilience. The song captures the bittersweet nature of these experiences, where moments of connection are intertwined with heartache and longing. Emily Kinney's soft, melodic voice adds a layer of poignancy to the lyrics, making "Berkeley's Breathing" a reflective and evocative piece that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of love and loss.