Meaning of "Cremation" by Lou Reed

"Cremation" by Lou Reed delves into the inevitable nature of death and the unchanging quality of the sea. The coal black sea symbolizes the eternal nature of the ocean, which remains constant despite the passing of time and the changing weather patterns. The repetition of the phrase "waits forever" emphasizes the endlessness of both the sea and death. The scattering of ashes at sea is a common practice for those who have been cremated, and the song presents conflicting feelings about this ritual. While the sea is portrayed as a tranquil and eternal resting place, there is also a sense of uncertainty and finality associated with it. The lyrics ponder whether the ashes will float or sink, pondering the fate of the deceased. Overall, the song contemplates the cycle of life and death, the permanence of the natural world, and the ambiguous nature of what happens after we die.