Meaning of "Catch the Sun" by Doves

"Catch the Sun" is a song that delves into themes of longing, nostalgia, and the complexities of human emotions. The opening lines, "Every day it comes to this, catch the things you might have missed," set a reflective tone. The narrator is acknowledging that each day is an opportunity to seize moments that might otherwise be overlooked. The line, "You say get back to yesterday, 'cause I ain't ever going back," suggests a desire to revisit the past, perhaps seeking solace or searching for answers. However, the following lines reveal a conflict within the narrator – while they miss the person they're addressing and the way they used to interact ("But I, I miss the way you lie"), they also feel misunderstood and emotionally torn apart ("'Cause I'm always misunderstood, pulled apart and ripped in two").

The lyrics highlight the narrator's struggle to find stability and a sense of belonging. They express a longing to escape a place they despise ("Back to the place that I can't stand"), but simultaneously long for the familiarity and comfort it once provided. This inner turmoil is further explored in the lines, "Why I didn't feel so good, 'cause I've always been up and down, never wanted to hit the ground." The narrator is questioning their own emotions and seeking an understanding of why they haven't been able to find true contentment.

The repetition of the phrase "Catch the sun" throughout the song creates a metaphorical image of grasping at fleeting moments of happiness and joy. The sun, representing happiness, is emphasized as something that never fully arrives ("Catch the sun, it never comes"). This evokes a sense of yearning for something that may always remain elusive. The line, "Cry in the sand, lost in the fire," further conveys a feeling of being unable to hold onto happiness or a sense of fulfillment.

Overall, "Catch the Sun" explores the complexities of human emotions, longing for the past, and a desire to find happiness amidst inner turmoil. It touches on themes of nostalgia, yearning, and the fleeting nature of joy.