Vancouver '23

In 'Vancouver '23,' The Poles delve into a deeply introspective journey, using the vastness of the ocean as a metaphor for the protagonist's internal struggles. The song opens with the imagery of walking down the street, likening the act to a 'killer, slaying my ego.' This powerful metaphor suggests a deliberate attempt to shed one's pride and confront personal vulnerabilities. The ocean, a recurring symbol in literature and music, represents both the enormity of the protagonist's emotions and the desire to cleanse and start anew. By 'hurling my ego's corpse into the deep,' the protagonist seeks to rid themselves of the burdens that have been weighing them down.

The repeated line, 'I am too broken to create something,' underscores a sense of creative and emotional paralysis. This admission of brokenness is a raw and honest reflection of the protagonist's state of mind. Standing before the ocean, they yearn for a moment of peace and clarity, a chance to 'take a breath.' The ocean's waves, which 'slow down,' symbolize a longing for life to decelerate, allowing for introspection and healing. This desire to 'leave everything here and go' speaks to a universal human experience of wanting to escape from overwhelming circumstances and find solace in nature.

The song's refrain, 'Not much has changed,' highlights the ongoing struggle and the feeling of being engulfed by one's challenges. Despite the passage of time, the protagonist remains in a state of confrontation with their inner demons. The Poles' use of vivid imagery and emotional depth in 'Vancouver '23' captures the essence of a personal battle with self-doubt and the search for tranquility. The ocean serves as both a mirror and a refuge, reflecting the protagonist's turmoil while offering a space for potential renewal and peace.