Meaning of "Shelter" by Birdy
The lyrics of "Shelter" by Birdy convey a sense of vulnerability and the need for emotional refuge. The protagonist seeks solace and safety in a hidden place, perhaps to escape the pressures and expectations of the outside world. They long for someone to listen and understand them, desperate for their words to be heard. The repetition of the line "Maybe I have said something that was wrong, can I make it better with the lights turned on?" emphasizes their fear of making mistakes and the desire to fix them. They crave illumination and clarity, hoping that by shining a light on their flaws, they can find forgiveness and redemption.
The protagonist also expresses a deep longing to connect with their loved one on a profound level, wanting to experience the same emotions as them. The line "It felt so crystal in the air, I still want to drown whenever you leave, please teach me gently how to breathe" showcases their intense desire to feel what their loved one feels, to be completely immersed in their presence. They yearn for a deeper understanding and connection, hoping that their loved one can teach them how to navigate their own emotions and find comfort in their absence.
The lyrics also touch upon the theme of distance and separation. The protagonist vows to go to great lengths, even crossing oceans, in order to make their loved one feel the same way they do. The line "And I'll send images back at you, so you can see the way I feel it too" highlights their desire to bridge the physical distance between them, using images as a means to convey their emotions. They seek to create a shared experience and understanding, hoping that through this connection, they can alleviate the emotional and physical distance between them.
Overall, "Shelter" explores themes of vulnerability, the fear of making mistakes, the longing for connection, and the desire to be understood and heard. It encapsulates the universal human longing for emotional refuge and the yearning for deep connection with others.
