Meaning of "Borne on the FM Waves of the Heart" by Against Me!

The lyrics of "Borne on the FM Waves of the Heart" delve into the difficulties and challenges that arise in romantic relationships. The song suggests that love is often not as simple as it seems, as the narrator admits, "No, it's not what we meant to say, we don't really love each other." This line implies that their relationship has lost its initial spark and has become characterized by miscommunication and uncertain emotions. The question of what happens when the summer is over highlights the struggle of maintaining a relationship when faced with distance and the mundane realities of everyday life. The narrator approaches the situation with trepidation, hoping for understanding and perhaps trying to salvage what is left of the connection.

The theme of miscommunication continues to be explored, as the lyrics blame the lack of effective communication for the breakdown of the relationship. The line "Before you speak, think about what you're trying to say" suggests the importance of considering one's words before uttering them, as it can prevent misunderstandings and hurt. The song also points out the danger of getting caught up in the excitement and making promises that cannot be kept. By urging to "leave all your options open," it implies that committing too much or making unrealistic promises can lead to pain and disappointment.

Anxiety plays a significant role in the lyrics, as it's mentioned multiple times throughout the song. The line "Anxiety, anxiety, you give me no mercy" expresses the overwhelming effect anxiety has on the narrator. It is described as grinding their teeth smooth and flat in their sleep, illustrating the physical toll that anxiety takes on them. The song suggests that anxiety is a driving force behind the inability to maintain control in the relationship. The narrator turns to pills for help, indicating the search for ways to calm their anxiety and regain a sense of control.

The repeated mention of too much momentum, too many angles, and waiting for a signal symbolizes the chaos and overwhelming nature of the relationship. It implies that there are numerous factors and intricacies that must be navigated in order to maintain control and stability. The line "you have to fight to stay in control of the situation" further emphasizes the constant struggle to maintain control and prevent the relationship from falling apart.

In the end, the song conveys a sense of resignation and acceptance, as it states that there is no need to fight to stay in control of the situation. This could signify a realization that the relationship has reached its breaking point and that trying to maintain control is futile. It suggests that sometimes it is better to let go and accept the natural course of events.