Meaning of "West Coast Friendship" by Owl City

The lyrics of "West Coast Friendship" by Owl City explore themes of escapism, longing for change, and the search for a place of belonging. The narrator begins by expressing their dissatisfaction with their current situation, where rainy days and a gloomy apartment contribute to their sadness and feelings of being trapped. The mention of the walls closing in and the darkness around them represents the stifling and oppressive nature of their surroundings.

To escape this suffocating environment, the narrator comes up with a plan to cut out a door in their living room floor, symbolizing their desire for an unconventional escape route. The porch light's brightness and the rusty fire escape act as symbols of hope and opportunity, suggesting that there might be a way to find a new beginning.

The decision to buy a one-way ticket to California reflects the narrator's longing for a fresh start and a sense of freedom. Boarding the jet plane becomes a metaphor for leaving behind their old life and embracing change. The tears wiped away symbolize leaving behind the pain and embracing the unknown. The warm water that surprises them upon waking up beside the ocean represents the cleansing and rejuvenating effect of this new environment.

The mention of California carries significant symbolism throughout the song. California is often associated with dreams, new beginnings, and the pursuit of happiness. It represents the narrator's search for a place of belonging and the realization that they might have finally found it in this new place.

The second verse introduces the idea of a "happy west coast friend" and emphasizes the joy and vitality that can be found in coastal living. The breaking waves and beach homes symbolize the rejuvenation and beauty that the narrator desires. The mention of redwoods adds a touch of natural beauty and serenity to the picture, highlighting the sense of peace and tranquility the narrator hopes to find.

The song ends with the narrator contemplating whether their new reality is actually a dream or if they have truly found their place in California. This line suggests the transformative power of this journey and the narrator's disbelief that their dreams have become a reality.

Overall, "West Coast Friendship" speaks to the universal desires for escape, belonging, and finding a place that feels like home. It encapsulates the yearning for change and the belief that a change of scenery can bring about new beginnings and a sense of happiness.