Treading Water

SOJA's song 'Treading Water' delves into the emotional turmoil and uncertainty that often accompany love and relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone waiting for a sign or a call from their significant other, feeling as though they are barely staying afloat in a vast ocean of emotions. The metaphor of 'treading water' effectively captures the sense of struggle and the effort required to maintain a semblance of stability in the face of overwhelming feelings. The ocean, being much bigger than the individual, symbolizes the enormity of the emotional challenges they are facing.

The song also touches on the theme of longing and the pain of separation. The protagonist is depicted as packing up a hotel room, a transient space that underscores the temporary and uncertain nature of their situation. The shimmering stars above serve as a poignant reminder of the love they once envisioned, contrasting sharply with the reality they are now experiencing. The repeated references to waiting and the frustration expressed through phrases like 'goddammit!' highlight the emotional intensity and the sense of helplessness that comes with unrequited love or a strained relationship.

Furthermore, the lyrics explore the cyclical nature of these emotions. The protagonist finds themselves running in circles, unable to escape the memories and feelings associated with their partner. Despite the pain and confusion, there is a persistent hope and need for the other person, as evidenced by the line 'I won't change it for any other girl in the world.' This cyclical pattern of hope and despair is encapsulated in the imagery of the bottle, which starts full and ends empty, symbolizing the draining and consuming nature of their emotional journey.