Meaning of "Couldn't Know" by Paw

The lyrics of "Couldn't Know" by Paw delve into themes of fleeting beauty, impermanence, and the impact of witnessing the cycle of life. The narrator's encounter with the fishermen catching a large fish triggers a sense of awe and admiration towards the natural world. The fish symbolizes beauty and perfection, with the narrator even naming its children in hopes of preserving its legacy. However, the abrupt realization that the fish will not survive and the ultimate acknowledgment of mortality leads to a moment of introspection. The narrator grapples with the idea that belief alone cannot change the outcome, highlighting the helplessness in the face of nature and the inevitability of death. The song captures a poignant moment where the beauty of nature is both celebrated and mourned, serving as a reminder of life's transience.