Oceans Burning

The Horrors' song 'Oceans Burning' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of memory, loss, and the ethereal nature of human connections. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a reunion with a loved one, possibly a ghost or a memory, in a serene and almost otherworldly setting. The recurring imagery of sunlight on the arms and the orchard suggests a place of peace and nostalgia, where the past and present intertwine seamlessly. This setting serves as a backdrop for the emotional and spiritual reconnection between the narrator and the person they are addressing.

The song's chorus, with lines like 'It's a joy to know you're waiting there' and 'Writing letters, burning in the air,' evokes a sense of longing and the bittersweet nature of remembering someone who is no longer physically present. The act of writing letters that burn in the air could symbolize the transient nature of communication and the difficulty of holding onto memories. The 'frozen stare' mentioned in the lyrics further emphasizes the theme of time standing still, capturing a moment that is both beautiful and melancholic.

As the song progresses, the imagery shifts to a 'lonely ship' and an 'ocean which is burning,' suggesting a journey through turbulent emotions and the struggle to reconcile with the past. The repeated line 'Turns out you were right all along' hints at a realization or acceptance of truths that were previously denied or misunderstood. The final verses, with their emphasis on being 'held together' and 'melt together,' convey a sense of unity and resolution, even amidst the chaos and uncertainty. The Horrors masterfully blend poetic lyrics with atmospheric music to create a song that resonates deeply with themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.