Close to Paradise

Patrick Watson's 'Close to Paradise' is a contemplative exploration of the human pursuit of an ideal state of being, often referred to as 'paradise.' The song's lyrics convey a sense of perpetual striving, where each moment brings us closer to this utopian vision, yet it remains just out of reach. This theme is encapsulated in the recurring lines, 'We're getting closer and closer, but not close enough.' The repetition emphasizes the relentless nature of this pursuit and the inherent frustration in never quite arriving at the desired destination.

The song also delves into the dissonance between our expectations and reality. The line 'Wake in the morning, the sunshine burns, cause you're far from what you thought you were' suggests a moment of awakening or realization that one's current state is far removed from their idealized self. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the human condition, where the journey towards self-fulfillment and happiness is fraught with obstacles and disillusionment. The imagery of walking faster while the days don't slow down further underscores the relentless passage of time and the urgency to achieve one's goals.

In the latter part of the song, Watson shifts the focus to a collective call to action. 'Hey lovely people down there, let's fill that hole up in the sky' serves as a metaphor for addressing the voids or deficiencies in our lives and society. The encouragement to 'not be afraid to care' and the assurance that 'you'll find yourself there' suggests that the journey to paradise is not just an individual endeavor but a communal one. It implies that through collective effort and compassion, we can come closer to achieving a state of paradise, even if it remains an ever-elusive goal.