The lyrics describe the narrator's desire to improve himself while feeling isolated and hiding underneath the sea, away from distractions and negativity, to focus on becoming a better man.

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Meaning of "Man Under The Sea" by Patrick Watson


The imagery of hiding underneath the sea can symbolize retreating from the chaotic and noisy world to find oneself and work on personal growth. The repeated lines "to be a better man" emphasize the narrator's introspective journey to self-improvement. The mention of the fish and sea as companions in this solitude may suggest a simplicity and purity in this pursuit of self-betterment, away from the complexities of the world above. The reference to being a "noise machine" could represent the external influences and distractions that can hinder personal growth, while the idea of being "born again" could allude to a fresh start or transformation in the narrator's life. Overall, the lyrics convey a introspective journey of solitude, self-reflection, and the pursuit of personal evolution.