Meaning of "Bell Under Water" by Lotte Kestner

The song "Bell Under Water" by Lotte Kestner explores themes of communication, expectation, and the difficulty of conveying one's thoughts and emotions to another person. The opening line, "No I don't expect you to decode what I left you," sets the tone for the song and expresses the singer's understanding that their message may not be easily understood or interpreted by the recipient. This lack of expectation is juxtaposed with the visual imagery of "fingers dipped in lemon juice," suggesting that there may still be a small hope or desire for understanding.

The repeated line "Handwriting in the water, like a bell under water" serves as a metaphor for the struggle to communicate clearly and effectively. Handwriting is typically a means of conveying thoughts and emotions through written words, but when placed in water, the words become distorted and difficult to read. Similarly, a bell submerged underwater loses its sound, making it challenging for its intended message to be heard. These metaphors highlight the frustration and difficulty the singer experiences in trying to express themselves, suggesting that their words may be overlooked or misunderstood.

The mention of a room in which the singer and the recipient have slept in further emphasizes the metaphorical barrier between them. The line "Five senses collecting, like we're fingerprinting" suggests that the experiences shared in this room have left an indelible mark on both individuals. However, despite this closeness, the challenge of communication remains.

The overall meaning of the song can be interpreted as an exploration of the complexities and limitations of human connection. It acknowledges the inherent challenges in truly understanding one another, even in the closest of relationships. The use of vivid imagery and metaphors creates a sense of longing and frustration, capturing the struggle to make oneself understood and the disappointment that can accompany failed attempts at communication.