Meaning of "Almost Here" by The Academy Is...

The lyrics of "Almost Here" by The Academy Is... convey the lead singer's experiences and emotions as he navigates the music industry. The opening lines suggest that he was once stuck in a mundane job, working "in daylight feeding fashion to housewives." However, he is now taking a chance and hitting the road, leaving his job and old life behind. It's a leap of faith, as he puts his trust in "truck stops and state lines." This symbolizes his willingness to embrace the unknown and risk everything for his dreams.

The chorus reveals the singer's yearning for home and a loved one. While he may be missing them "to death," he understands that his current journey is for the best. This can be interpreted as the sacrifices artists must make in pursuit of their careers. Despite the distance, he holds onto his pride and allows his loved one to sleep, suggesting that he wants to shield them from worrying about his struggles.

The second verse introduces the theme of lost friendships. The singer's "old friends have been dropping like houseflies," indicating that some relationships have faded or ended as he pursued his music career. The line "the smoking gun still sits in my pocket and I know how to use it" suggests that he holds some power or evidence against those who have betrayed or let him down. He recognizes that forgiveness may not come easily, expressing his reluctance to forgive those who turned their backs on him.

The chorus repeats, further emphasizing the singer's longing for home and the internal struggle he faces in balancing his pride and the need for his loved ones' support. The final lines, "I'm on my feet, I'm running," highlight the perseverance and determination he possesses. He acknowledges that the time for success is nearing, reinforcing the idea that his breakthrough moment is within reach. Despite feeling like this journey is unlike him, he is willing to continue with the belief that his time is "almost here."

Overall, the lyrics capture the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by musicians as they navigate the challenges, sacrifices, and disappointments in the music industry. It speaks to the longing for home and a sense of belonging, as well as the resilience and determination required to persevere in the face of adversity.