Meaning of "Ontario" by Jon Bryant

The lyrics of "Ontario" by Jon Bryant explore the universal theme of leaving home and venturing into the unknown. The singer's conflicting emotions are portrayed through vivid imagery of wind blowing, cities sleeping, oceans rising, and candles burning out. He expresses feelings of restlessness, nostalgia, and uncertainty as he grapples with the decision to leave behind what is familiar and embark on a new journey. The references to past sorrows and lessons, as well as the repetition of the phrase "God only knows," suggest a sense of surrender to fate and a willingness to embrace the unpredictability of life's path. Overall, the song evokes a sense of bittersweet longing for both the past and the future, capturing the complexity of making life-changing decisions and stepping into the unknown.