If a Tree Falls

The Beaches' song 'If a Tree Falls' delves into the complex emotions of avoidance and the pain of confronting harsh truths. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with the aftermath of a painful revelation. The imagery of 'hiding in your hoodie' and 'pulling on its strings' suggests a desire to retreat and shield oneself from the emotional turmoil. The mention of a knife opening up a cut symbolizes the raw and invasive nature of the truth that has been revealed, causing the protagonist to feel as though they are bleeding out emotionally.

The recurring metaphor of a tree falling serves as a poignant representation of the protagonist's struggle with facing reality. The line 'If a tree falls, I don't wanna hear it' encapsulates the desire to remain ignorant to avoid the pain that comes with knowledge. This sentiment is further emphasized with 'If I don't know, I don't have to feel it,' highlighting the coping mechanism of emotional detachment. The protagonist's internal conflict is evident as they acknowledge hearing the metaphorical tree fall, yet they wish they hadn't, as it brings them immense distress.

The song also touches on themes of nostalgia and loss of self. The protagonist reflects on a time when they were more carefree and unburdened by the weight of their current emotions. The line 'Wish I could remember the girl who I adored' signifies a longing for a past version of themselves that has been overshadowed by their present struggles. The Beaches use these powerful metaphors and vivid imagery to convey the universal human experience of dealing with emotional pain and the lengths we go to avoid it, making 'If a Tree Falls' a deeply relatable and evocative song.