Meaning of "Wading In The Velvet Sea" by Phish

The song "Wading In The Velvet Sea" by Phish seems to convey a sense of longing and the realization that time is a precious resource that cannot be captured or contained. The repetitive nature of the opening lines, "I've been wading in the velvet sea," suggests a state of existence where the speaker is immersed in a dreamlike, tranquil, yet somewhat elusive environment. This sea could symbolize a metaphorical space of introspection and contemplation.

The second part of the lyrics highlights the speaker's desire to encapsulate a moment in time, as if trying to preserve its significance. The act of wrapping a moment "up in things you say" and sending it off to the recipient's address conveys an attempt to share a personal experience or emotion with someone else. However, the packaging is fragile, and the points the speaker aims to make may be lost or discarded along the way. This portrays the inherent fragility of communication and the inevitable erosion of intentions as time passes.

The lines, "Time leaks out my life leaks in," further emphasize the transient nature of existence. Time, like a leak, escapes from our grasp, while life seeps into our being. This speaks to the idea that time is constantly flowing, and we cannot hold on to it or fully grasp its essence.

The lyrical reflection on the limitations of attempting to contain moments in a box implies that true meaning and significance cannot be encapsulated or packaged. The experience of life and the emotions attached to it cannot be conveyed through a mere letter or object. The final act of sending the wrapped-up moment off suggests a hope that the recipient will understand and appreciate its meaning, but there is an underlying understanding that this may not be possible.

Overall, "Wading In The Velvet Sea" explores the ephemeral nature of time and the human struggle to capture and convey meaningful experiences. It serves as a reminder that moments should be cherished in their present context, as they cannot be fully preserved or transferred to someone else.