Island

Miley Cyrus's song 'Island' presents a narrative that oscillates between feelings of isolation and the bliss of solitude. The lyrics depict a scenario where the protagonist is on an island, enjoying the sun and the sea, yet feeling a sense of loneliness due to the absence of a loved one. The repeated question 'Am I stranded on an island or have I landed in paradise?' reflects the internal conflict between appreciating the present moment and yearning for companionship.

The song's verses reveal a deeper sense of introspection. The mention of 'treasures buried underneath the sand' suggests that there are hidden aspects of the self or untapped potential that the protagonist is aware of but has yet to fully explore. The advice from her mother, 'Girl, smoke 'em if you got 'em,' implies a philosophy of making the most of what one has, yet the protagonist admits to leaving her lighter—and metaphorically her problems—back at home. This indicates a desire to escape from issues rather than confront them.

The chorus of the song is interwoven with a motif of hearing a loved one's voice like a song on the radio, which serves as a metaphor for the lingering presence of someone absent. This auditory hallucination is a poignant reminder of the protagonist's solitude and the emotional connection that remains despite physical distance. Overall, 'Island' is a contemplation of the duality of being alone—whether it is a form of paradise or a state of being stranded, and the complex emotions that come with it.