Meaning of "Floater" by Every Time I Die

The lyrics of "Floater" by Every Time I Die express a conflicted and restless state of mind. The speaker addresses their mistress, informing her that they are leaving and implying that their relationship has gone on for too long. This decision is driven by the speaker's awareness of their own bad reputation and a desire to break free from the mistakes they have made in the past. There is a hint of shame in their words as they acknowledge their wrongdoings and express the hope that someday they will be able to redeem themselves, likening it to being washed up or cleansed of their sins.

The speaker reveals a sense of urgency to clear their head and find clarity in their life. Breathing in deeply symbolizes a fresh start or a renewal of purpose. However, the mention of everyone being dead suggests a broader disillusionment with the world and a sense of futility. The scenic highway overpass, which is bid farewell, represents a departure from the conventional path and a rejection of societal expectations.

The speaker introduces the theme of the river, describing their lover as a better soldier than a bride. This implies that the unpredictable and relentless nature of the river is more suited to their needs than a stable and conventional relationship. Despite this, they still yearn for the warmth and comfort that their mistress provides, leaving their heart at the side of her bed. It's a bittersweet admission, acknowledging both the physical pleasure and emotional connection they have experienced with her.

The reference to dragging the lake and finding it full of love offers a touch of ambiguity. Love, often associated with positive emotions, is presented as something that can be discovered in unexpected and even dark places. It suggests that love can be found in the depths of despair and heartache. This idea is reinforced when the speaker urges bringing children to the water to witness heartache, perhaps as a cautionary tale or a way to teach them about the realities of life.

The conclusion of the lyrics introduces the concept of matrimony needing a witness and the importance of teaching the next generation not to let their dreams die. The speaker implores that dreamers should not grow up to become dead men, emphasizing the need for resilience and the pursuit of one's passions. The suggestion to drown them at birth can be seen as a metaphorical call to protect and nurture their dreams from the beginning, ensuring that they have a fighting chance. The lyrics end with a sense of surrender and vulnerability, as the speaker describes being breathless in the cold embrace of their lover, juxtaposing the comfort of their warmth with the reminder of the harsh reality they are facing.