California

Sons Of The East's song 'California' is a poignant exploration of self-discovery, reflection, and the passage of time. The lyrics tell the story of someone who has left their home in California, seeking something beyond the familiar. The opening lines, 'Left my home long ago / To get out of California,' set the stage for a journey that is both physical and emotional. The mention of 'the bird she hides, the other side' suggests a longing for freedom and a search for something elusive, perhaps a better understanding of oneself or a new beginning.

The song delves into themes of brokenness and resilience, with lines like 'Broken homes, rattled bones / White dust from before.' These words paint a picture of a past filled with hardship and struggle, yet there is a sense of acceptance and readiness for what lies ahead: 'Now I know what I've got / What I've got in store.' The recurring imagery of the future 'hiding beneath the water' symbolizes the uncertainty and mystery of what is to come, while the inability to 'wander' reflects a feeling of being stuck or unable to move forward despite knowing what the future holds.

As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on their experiences and the passage of time. 'Cold nights, sunny skies / Just me, my hazy eyes' captures the duality of life, with its highs and lows, and the introspective journey of the narrator. The repeated line 'I see now' signifies a moment of clarity and realization, as if the narrator has finally come to terms with their past and is ready to embrace the future. The absence of 'white stallions at my door' suggests that the narrator no longer waits for grand, mythical solutions but instead finds peace in the simple, everyday moments. 'California' is a beautifully crafted song that resonates with anyone who has ever embarked on a journey of self-discovery and reflection.