Meaning of "Air Traffic" by Owl City

The lyrics of "Air Traffic" by Owl City depict a dreamlike journey through the skies. The bird symbolizes freedom and escape, representing the narrator's desire to leave behind the mundane and explore new possibilities. The reference to airlines winding through the clouds and looking down on the crowds establishes a sense of detachment and a bird's-eye view of the world. It suggests that the narrator wants to rise above the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace a different perspective.

The calming and lullaby-like tone of the song suggests a desire for tranquility and escape from the chaos of the world. The narrator invites the listener to relax and be carried away, promising a quiet and peaceful journey. The act of carrying someone silently if they wake up suggests a nurturing and protective nature, offering comfort and reassurance.

The mention of the atmosphere being a "pristine crime scene" and the reference to a false veneer from another year adds an intriguing layer of meaning. It implies that the world below, with its masks and pretenses, is like a crime scene—deceptive and full of hidden truths. The "false veneer" could represent societal expectations or the pressure to conform. By contrasting this with the pristine nature of the atmosphere, the lyrics suggest that escaping to a higher plane offers a chance to see through the illusions of the world and find authenticity.

The narrator's description of themselves as a shell paints a picture of emptiness and a longing for identity and purpose. By painting their eyes green, they try to bring some life and vibrancy to their existence. Green is often associated with growth, renewal, and nature, implying a desire for transformation and connection with something greater.

The mention of silver beams twirling and swirling throughout dreams like air traffic streams adds a whimsical and ethereal quality to the lyrics. It suggests that the dream world is a place of movement, connectivity, and endless possibilities—a parallel to the vast expanse of the sky and the freedom it represents.