Sea Of Love

The National's 'Sea Of Love' is a haunting exploration of love, loss, and the inevitable turbulence that accompanies deep emotional connections. The song opens with a plea for affirmation, 'Will you say you love me, Jo? How am I supposed to know?' This sets the tone for a narrative filled with uncertainty and longing. The protagonist is grappling with the complexities of a relationship that seems to be slipping away, much like the people 'slidin' to the sea.' The sea here can be interpreted as a metaphor for the overwhelming and uncontrollable nature of emotions and circumstances that pull people apart.

The recurring line, 'If I stay here trouble will find me,' suggests a sense of inevitability and entrapment. The protagonist feels that remaining in the current situation will only lead to more pain and difficulty. This sentiment is echoed in the lines, 'We're turning into thieves,' indicating that staying in the relationship is causing them to lose parts of themselves, perhaps their integrity or sense of self-worth. The repetition of 'I believe' underscores a desperate hope or resignation to this fate.

The song also delves into the theme of regret and apology, particularly in the lines, 'Hey Jo sorry I hurt you, but they say love is a virtue don't they?' This repeated apology highlights the protagonist's awareness of the pain they've caused, yet it also questions the conventional wisdom that love is inherently virtuous. The mention of Harvard in the lines, 'What did Harvard teach you?' could be a critique of intellectualism or societal expectations, suggesting that despite education and knowledge, the complexities of human emotions and relationships remain elusive and difficult to navigate.

Overall, 'Sea Of Love' by The National is a poignant reflection on the struggles of maintaining love amidst chaos and the inevitable heartache that comes with it. The song's melancholic tone and introspective lyrics invite listeners to ponder the nature of love, loss, and the personal transformations that occur in the face of emotional turmoil.