Tidal Waves
Summer Salt
Navigating the Emotional Currents in 'Tidal Waves' by Summer Salt
Summer Salt's 'Tidal Waves' is a poignant exploration of memory, time, and the emotional turbulence that accompanies them. The song opens with the imagery of falling 'as a feather' into someone's pocket, suggesting a sense of vulnerability and the haunting nature of past experiences. This metaphor sets the tone for the song, which delves into the complexities of personal history and the paths that have led to the present moment. The mention of 'paper planes' hovering around the window evokes a sense of nostalgia and the fleeting nature of time.
The chorus, with its reference to 'tidal waves' ripping through the breezeway, symbolizes the overwhelming force of emotions and memories that can disrupt one's sense of stability. The lyrics 'A year once new now far behind me' reflect on the passage of time and the changes it brings. The idea of making 'a few more wishes come true' suggests a desire to reclaim some control and hope amidst the chaos. The repeated invitation to 'unbraid' and 'take some time today' emphasizes the need to pause, reflect, and let go of the past to find peace.
As the song progresses, it touches on the exhaustion that comes from battling one's inner turmoil. The lines 'all of the songs that we've crewed / Slowly stretch themselves out of tune' convey a sense of weariness and the inevitable changes that time imposes on relationships and experiences. The imagery of a 'dripping Sun' and 'tidal waves-a-roar high above me' further underscores the powerful and often overwhelming nature of these emotional currents. Ultimately, 'Tidal Waves' is a call to embrace the present, unbraid the complexities of the past, and allow memories to fade, making room for new experiences and growth.