Riptide

Grandson's song "Riptide" delves deep into the internal battle of dealing with personal demons and the struggle to break free from destructive habits. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who acknowledges their wrongdoings and the impact they've had on others, yet feels trapped in a cycle of self-destructive behavior. The metaphor of a riptide is used to describe the overwhelming force that pulls the individual back into their harmful patterns, despite their efforts to escape.

The song's chorus, "I've been caught up in the riptide, for too long 'cause it's all I know," highlights the sense of familiarity and resignation that comes with long-term struggles. The protagonist admits to letting things slide and allowing bad habits to persist, even though they recognize the need for change. This internal conflict is further emphasized by the plea, "Save me from myself," indicating a desire for external help and intervention to overcome these challenges.

Grandson's raw and honest lyrics also touch on the temporary relief sought through substance use, only to find that the problems resurface once the high fades. The line, "I get high to leave all these problems on the ground, then to my surprise, they're right there when I come back down," encapsulates the futile attempt to escape reality. The song ultimately conveys a message of desperation and the need for release, as seen in the repeated refrain, "But if you love me, let me go." This plea suggests a recognition that sometimes, the best way to help someone is to allow them the space to find their own way out of the riptide.