Oceanic Feeling

Lorde's 'Oceanic Feeling' is a reflective and introspective song that delves into themes of family, personal growth, and the passage of time. The song opens with a serene and contemplative tone, describing a 'blue day' and the calming, almost meditative experience of being in water. This imagery sets the stage for a deeper exploration of memories and connections, particularly with her father, who she imagines doing the same activities in his youth. This generational link underscores the cyclical nature of life and the shared experiences that bind us to our past and future.

The song also touches on the relationship with her younger brother, whom she views with a mix of admiration and protective love. The lyrics 'Little brother, I think you're an angel' and 'I know you're scared, so was I' highlight a nurturing aspect, as she reassures him that everything will become clear in time. This segment of the song emphasizes the importance of familial bonds and the guidance we offer to those we care about, even as we navigate our uncertainties.

Lorde then shifts her focus to the future, contemplating the possibility of having a daughter and wondering which traits she might inherit. This introspection is coupled with a sense of empowerment, as she reflects on her own growth and the shedding of past insecurities, symbolized by the 'cherry black lipstick gathering dust in a drawer.' The repeated mantra of 'I just had to breathe and tune in' suggests a journey towards mindfulness and self-acceptance. The song concludes with a sense of ongoing discovery and the acknowledgment that enlightenment is a continuous process, marked by moments of clarity and connection with the natural world.