Meaning of "Anywhere" by Beth Orton

The lyrics of "Anywhere" convey a deep yearning to bring happiness to someone's life and avoid their suffering. The line "I'd do anything to see you smile again" emphasizes the willingness to go to great lengths to bring joy to the person being addressed. The desire to protect that person is also evident, as the lyrics express the need to protect oneself from pain and fear. This protection is likely motivated by love and a deep connection with the person in question.

The lyrics further explore the theme of secrets and the weight they carry. The reference to "Chinese whispers" suggests the distortion and potential harm that can arise from keeping secrets. This implies that it's difficult for the narrator to keep such secrets, possibly due to the negative impact they have on their relationship with the person they care about. Memories also seem to play a significant role, as they are mentioned multiple times in the lyrics. This could indicate that past memories, whether positive or negative, influence the narrator's actions and emotions.

The repetition of the line "Nothing is done without effect" reflects the belief that every action carries consequences, whether direct or indirect. This reflects a sense of understanding and responsibility for one's choices. The imagery of pulling one brick from an endless wall and the question of whether it would drown everyone implies that the smallest changes can have far-reaching impact. This could be interpreted as a cautionary reminder of the potential consequences of even seemingly insignificant actions.

Ultimately, the lyrics convey a desire for happiness, protection, and honesty in a relationship. The narrator longs to bring joy to someone's life, confronting both their own fears and the weight of secrets and memories. The song serves as an exploration of the complexities of love and the choices we make, emphasizing the potential effects they can have on ourselves and others.