Posthumous Forgiveness

Tame Impala's 'Posthumous Forgiveness' is a deeply personal and emotional song that delves into the complex relationship between a son and his late father. The lyrics reveal a journey of disillusionment, betrayal, and ultimately, a yearning for reconciliation. The song begins with the narrator reminiscing about his childhood, where he idolized his father and believed in his words without question. However, as he grew older, he realized that his father was not the hero he once thought he was. The father’s actions, which seemed to be for the family's benefit, were actually self-serving, leading to a sense of betrayal and abandonment.

The chorus reflects the narrator's growing awareness and wisdom as he matures. He questions his father's motives and the empty explanations he provided. The imagery of storing an ocean in the holes of his father's explanations highlights the depth of the deceit and the emotional void left behind. The narrator laments the lost opportunities for his father to make amends, expressing a deep sense of regret and sorrow that his father took his apologies to the grave.

In the latter part of the song, the narrator expresses a desire to share his life experiences with his father, despite the pain and disappointment. He wants to tell his father about his achievements, his music, and the significant moments in his life. This longing to connect and the acknowledgment of his father's humanity, despite his flaws, signifies a move towards forgiveness. The narrator recognizes that both he and his father had their own demons, suggesting a shared struggle and a hope for understanding. The song ends on a poignant note, with the narrator wishing to hear his father's voice and sing along, symbolizing a desire for closure and peace.