Chinatown

Wild Nothing's 'Chinatown' is a dreamy, melancholic exploration of longing and the search for clarity in a foggy, confusing world. The song's lyrics revolve around the theme of 'innocent love,' a pure yet elusive emotion that the narrator is desperately trying to hold onto. The repetition of the need to 'go somewhere' and 'come down' suggests a desire for escape and grounding, a duality that reflects the internal conflict of wanting to run away from confusion while also seeking a place of comfort and understanding.

The imagery of 'clouds in your eyes' and 'the foggiest day' serves as a metaphor for emotional and mental obscurity. These lines paint a picture of a relationship or a state of mind that is shrouded in uncertainty and lack of clarity. The narrator's repeated need to 'clear the fog' indicates a yearning to dispel this confusion and see things as they truly are. This quest for clarity is intertwined with the desire to make the other person smile, suggesting that the narrator's happiness is deeply connected to the well-being of their loved one.

The line 'We're not happy 'til we're running away' encapsulates the restless spirit of the song. It speaks to a broader human condition of seeking happiness through escape, whether from physical places or emotional states. This running away is not just a physical act but also a metaphorical one, representing the constant search for something better, clearer, and more fulfilling. Wild Nothing's ethereal soundscape, characterized by dreamy synths and reverb-laden guitars, perfectly complements the lyrical themes, creating an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and otherworldly.