Maine

Noah Kahan's song 'Maine' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, change, and the longing for simpler times. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a past relationship and the emotional landscape that comes with it. The song opens with a series of questions directed at a former lover, asking if their soul has been rediscovered and if their heart has been rearranged. This sets the tone for a reflective journey, pondering whether the changes they've undergone have brought them any closer to peace or fulfillment. The mention of taking pills in the morning hints at struggles with mental health, adding a layer of depth to the narrative.

The imagery of an 'ocean town' and the transformation of the town into 'just an ocean now' serves as a powerful metaphor for the vast emptiness and the sense of loss that accompanies change. The lyrics also touch on the fear of space and the search for answers from strangers, suggesting a sense of disorientation and the struggle to find one's place in the world. The boat beside a dock in the sunlight and the lack of an open mouth symbolize a quiet, almost serene resignation to the current state of affairs.

The chorus, with its repeated longing to go to Maine, encapsulates the desire to return to a place of comfort and familiarity. The mention of the artist's father still talking about the former lover's songs and the whimsical idea of becoming a star through traffic light cameras add a touch of bittersweet humor. The song concludes with a reflection on the passage of time and the hope that the former lover is proud of the journey they've taken, despite the town now being 'just an ocean.' This final line underscores the theme of change and the inevitable transformation of places and relationships over time.