The narrator is in a tumultuous emotional state, feeling trapped by fear and uncertainty, yet also defiant and unwilling to succumb to manipulation. They express feelings of exhaustion and being drained by external pressures, while sensing a phantom presence that haunts them. Despite the absence of physical signs, the narrator feels the weight of someone's absence, as if they are walking on air.

Meaning of "Walking On Air" by Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark

The lyrics of "Walking On Air" by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark convey a sense of emotional turmoil, confusion, and defiance. The narrator grapples with conflicting feelings, describing a mood that is beyond simple comprehension, bordering on darkness and fear. There is a strong resistance to being controlled or belittled, as the narrator asserts their intelligence and refuses to back down. The absence of a tangible presence is deeply felt, haunting the narrator and disrupting their sense of reality. The repeated imagery of footsteps, cigarettes, and scented clothes creates a haunting atmosphere, emphasizing the loneliness and emptiness experienced by the narrator. Overall, the song reflects feelings of isolation, defiance, and vulnerability, capturing the complexities of human emotions and relationships.