Oblivion
M83
Ethereal Longing and Melancholy in M83's 'Oblivion'
M83's 'Oblivion' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a picture of a love that was destined yet doomed, likened to a 'song sung by a dying swan.' This metaphor suggests a love that is both beautiful and tragic, evoking the image of a swan's final, graceful moments before death. The swan, often a symbol of purity and grace, here represents a love that is pure but ultimately fleeting.
The recurring lines 'And in the night, you hear me calling, you hear me calling' and 'And in your dreams, you see me falling, falling' suggest a sense of longing and unfulfilled desire. The night and dreams are often associated with the subconscious and hidden emotions, indicating that the speaker's feelings are deeply ingrained and persistent. The imagery of falling in dreams can symbolize a loss of control or a descent into despair, further emphasizing the melancholic tone of the song.
The chorus, 'Breathe in the light and say goodbye,' serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitability of parting. Light often symbolizes hope and clarity, but here it is juxtaposed with the act of saying goodbye, suggesting a bittersweet acceptance of reality. The repetition of 'breathe in the light' implies a need to find solace and strength in the face of loss. The song's ethereal soundscape, combined with its introspective lyrics, creates an atmosphere of wistful reflection, making 'Oblivion' a deeply emotional and resonant piece.