Everything Goes On

Porter Robinson's 'Everything Goes On' is a poignant reflection on the transient nature of life and the acceptance of impermanence. The lyrics convey a message of letting go and the inevitability of change, suggesting that life continues regardless of individual existence. The song seems to address a loved one, urging them not to cling to memories or to the narrator himself, as he is merely a 'story' that has been told. This could imply a recognition of the fleeting moments of life and the importance of living in the present rather than being anchored to the past.

The song also touches on themes of unfulfilled promises and the struggle to accept one's limitations. The narrator speaks of wanting to take the loved one to the sea and do 'everything' once he is better, but acknowledges that he has been making promises he cannot keep. This admission reflects a human vulnerability and the sometimes painful awareness of our own mortality. The imagery of the sea and the setting sun further underscores the theme of life's ongoing cycle, with or without individual presence.

In the chorus, the repetition of 'Don't try to make yourself remember, darling' emphasizes the message of release and moving forward. The song suggests that holding on to someone who is no longer there is unnecessary, as life's continuity is assured. The idea of bringing the sea to the loved one, even if they cannot physically go there, speaks to the power of imagination and the comfort it can provide in the face of life's limitations. Overall, 'Everything Goes On' is a tender reminder of the beauty in acceptance and the strength found in embracing the ebb and flow of existence.