Meaning of "Short Story" by Nosound

The lyrics of "Short Story" by Nosound depict the deterioration of a romantic relationship. The lines "You arrive, I wait / You say, I stay here" suggest a sense of anticipation and loyalty from the narrator, who is eagerly waiting for the other person to arrive. However, the phrase "This love, falling" signifies that the relationship is crumbling. The use of the word "falling" implies a loss of stability and balance. Additionally, the phrase "The start, failing" suggests that the initial spark or connection between the couple has fizzled out.

As the lyrics continue, the line "Our lives, sleeping" reflects a sense of stagnation and lack of progress. It implies that both individuals are stuck in a state of emotional numbness and routine, unable to awaken their passion or achieve personal growth. The following line, "Awake, drowning," suggests that despite being aware of their stagnant situation, the narrator feels overwhelmed and trapped by it. This phrase evokes a feeling of suffocation and being consumed by the stagnant relationship.

The lyrics take a poignant turn with the line "You leave, smiling." This implies that the other person in the relationship is leaving the narrator with what appears to be little concern or remorse. The juxtaposition of leaving and smiling suggests a sense of callousness and disregard for the emotional impact of their departure. The narrator is left feeling abandoned and betrayed, amplifying their sense of isolation and longing.

Finally, the closing lines "I'll wait here, hiding" convey a sense of resignation and continued longing for the other person's return. The narrator accepts their role as the one left behind, choosing to hide their emotions and wait patiently for the other person to come back. This image of hiding represents the narrator's emotional retreat, as if they are burying their pain rather than confronting it.

Overall, "Short Story" explores the themes of lost love, emotional stagnation, longing, and betrayal. It delves into the complex emotions experienced when a relationship slowly crumbles and the pain of being left behind by someone who was once cherished. The lyrics paint a poignant picture of both longing and emotional withdrawal.