Howling

Noah Kahan's song 'Howling' delves deep into the emotional turmoil and existential questions that many people face. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with feelings of emptiness and searching for meaning in their life. The opening lines, 'Where to begin? Oh, let's pretend we never met,' suggest a desire to escape and start anew, highlighting the struggle to find a sense of belonging and purpose. The metaphor of trying to swim with hands tied behind the back symbolizes the feeling of being overwhelmed and unable to move forward effectively.

The song also touches on personal and familial struggles, such as the line 'I won't admit my parents split when I got sick,' which hints at unresolved issues and the burden of carrying emotional pain. The recurring question, 'Is there something keeping me here for the minute, darling?' reflects a deep sense of uncertainty and the search for something to hold onto amidst the chaos. The 'big black dog' mentioned in the lyrics is a well-known metaphor for depression, indicating that the protagonist is battling mental health issues.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of feeling lost and disconnected, as seen in the lines 'Did I lose my mind and am I still looking for it?' and 'I don't know why I feel this emptiness howling out.' The repetition of the word 'howling' emphasizes the intensity of these feelings, likening them to a primal scream for help. The mention of '05072,' which is the zip code for Strafford, Vermont, Kahan's hometown, adds a personal touch, grounding the song in a specific place that holds significance for the artist. This detail suggests that despite the feelings of emptiness, there is a connection to home and a longing for understanding and peace.