Parallel Lines

Kings Of Convenience's song "Parallel Lines" delves into the complexities of human relationships, particularly focusing on the idea of two individuals who are close yet never fully intersect. The lyrics explore the intangible essence that binds two people together, described metaphorically as a substance that one perceives as hunger and the other as food. This suggests a mutual yet differing need or desire, highlighting the subjective nature of human experiences and emotions.

The imagery in the song is vivid and dreamlike, with references to waking in tangled covers and dreaming in a cartoon garden. These lines evoke a sense of disconnection and parallel existence, where each person inhabits their own world, unable to fully understand or enter the other's reality. The mention of an "innocent imitation" and the idea of one person retreating when the music enters further emphasize the theme of missed connections and unfulfilled potential.

The chorus, with its reference to parallel lines moving fast toward the same point, encapsulates the central theme of the song. Parallel lines, by definition, never meet, symbolizing the perpetual closeness yet ultimate separation of the two individuals. The notion that infinity is as near as it is far adds a layer of philosophical contemplation, suggesting that while the potential for connection is always present, it remains just out of reach. This poignant reflection on the nature of relationships and the human condition is a hallmark of Kings Of Convenience's introspective and melodic style.