Meaning of "Standing By The Sea" by Hüsker Dü

The lyrics of "Standing By The Sea" by Hüsker Dü evoke a sense of solitude and introspection. The imagery of being alone by the sea, with no one around except for crashing waves, illustrates a feeling of isolation and self-reflection. The constant repetition of the waves crashing to the shore can be seen as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of life, where events often repeat themselves and leave little trace behind. The speaker's footprints disappearing symbolize the impermanence of human existence and the fleeting nature of individual actions. The mention of hearing the ocean in a shell serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things, despite feelings of loneliness. Ultimately, the lyrics suggest that even in moments of solitude, there is a sense of connection to something greater.