Meaning of "The Man" by Pete Yorn

The lyrics of "The Man" by Pete Yorn capture a sense of nostalgia and longing for the simplicity of youth, reflected through the imagery of walking by the waterside with loved ones. The repetition of not knowing who was right or what was seen on a particular night suggests unresolved questions or lingering doubts. The mention of the man who keeps coming around could symbolize a looming presence of the unknown or a reminder of past mistakes. The description of the person as being like the oceans and the light signifies a deep connection or reverence for someone lost or distant. The inability to find the right words encapsulates the complexity of emotions tied to memory and time, leaving the listener with a sense of contemplation and wonder.