Drifting

Nate Eiesland's song 'Drifting' delves into the emotional turmoil of longing and the painful realization of unfulfilled dreams. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a dream where the protagonist wakes up to find a loved one finally present, only to be struck by the harsh reality that it was all an illusion. This dream-to-reality transition is marked by a sense of unfairness, as time seems to warp, turning hours into fleeting minutes. The recurring theme of 'drifting' symbolizes the protagonist's sense of disorientation and loss when faced with the absence of the person they yearn for.

The song's narrative is driven by the protagonist's struggle to reconcile their dreams with reality. The repeated attempts to 'stare into your eyes' and the subsequent realization that 'there was something missing' highlight the deep-seated emptiness and the futile search for fulfillment. The act of trying to drive away into the night, staying 'between the lines and outta sight,' represents an escape from the painful truth. However, the constant return to the point of 'drifting' underscores the inescapable nature of their emotional state.

Eiesland's lyrics also explore the theme of acceptance and the need to move on. The acknowledgment that 'it's not you, it's just a dream, it's only fake' signifies a moment of clarity, where the protagonist understands the futility of clinging to an illusion. The repeated refrain 'I just gotta leave' serves as a mantra for self-preservation, emphasizing the necessity of breaking free from the cycle of longing and disappointment. The song's conclusion, with the repeated line 'that when I woke up you were finally there,' leaves listeners with a poignant reminder of the persistent hope that lingers, even in the face of reality.