The Bones Of Us

Switchfoot's 'The Bones Of Us' is a poignant exploration of love, memory, and reconciliation. The song begins with the evocative image of the narrator unearthing the 'bones' of their past relationship in their old backyard, using nothing but an old guitar. This metaphor suggests a journey into the past, where the narrator confronts the remnants of a once-vibrant love. The 'bones' symbolize the foundational elements of their relationship, now buried and forgotten, but still present and significant. The act of digging them up with a guitar hints at the healing power of music and introspection in uncovering and addressing past wounds.

As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on the dreams and aspirations they once shared with their partner, dreams that were abandoned as they grew apart. The repeated refrain, 'Time to figure out this war,' underscores the internal and external conflicts that have plagued their relationship. The narrator is determined to understand who and what they are fighting for, ultimately realizing that their struggle is not just for the relationship itself, but for the well-being and happiness of their partner. This realization is encapsulated in the lines, 'I'm fighting for us, but most of all, for you,' highlighting a selfless love that prioritizes the partner's needs and desires.

The song also touches on the passage of time and the impact it has on love. The mention of the clock moving forward and love becoming sore suggests that time and unresolved conflicts have taken a toll on their relationship. However, the narrator's discovery of old photographs and the memories they evoke serve as a reminder of the love and joy they once shared. This nostalgic reflection fuels the narrator's resolve to fight for their relationship, to navigate the unknown, and to allow their love to wash over them anew, like a flood. The repeated emphasis on fighting 'most of all, for you' reinforces the theme of selfless love and the hope for renewal and reconciliation.