Meaning of "Growth/Decay" by Doe Paoro

The lyrics of "Growth/Decay" by Doe Paoro delve into the themes of transformation, loss, and acceptance. The seed within the heart represents the potential for growth and change waiting to be nurtured by external factors like rain and sun. The growth of a thousand leaves with fruit symbolizes the realization of one's inner paradise or potential, while the decay represents the eventual loss that comes with change. The narrator observes their own transformation and the loss of their former self, feeling powerless in the face of this process. The cyclical nature of change is emphasized, with the narrator grappling with the inevitable passage of time and the uncertainty that comes with transformation. The repeated refrain of "Change, it only goes one way" underscores the idea that personal growth is often accompanied by decay or loss. The lyrics ultimately suggest a sense of resignation and acceptance of the natural cycle of growth and decay, acknowledging the complexities of life and the necessity of experiencing both in order to evolve.