The lyrics talk about a sense of chaos and instability, with broken atoms and failing foundations symbolizing a lack of control. The imagery of dogs barking, cats not landing on their feet, and flash floods that don't retreat reinforce the idea of unpredictable forces at play.

Meaning of "Flash Floods Don't Retreat" by The Antlers

"Flash Floods Don't Retreat" delves into themes of unpredictability, chaos, and lack of control. The broken atom and failing foundation serve as metaphors for the fragility and instability of life, highlighting how easily things can spiral out of control. The mention of traffic lights changing slowly and construction stopping reflects a sense of stagnation and frustration, adding to the overall feeling of helplessness. The repeated imagery of animals in distress and natural disasters that don't retreat emphasize the idea that sometimes in life, things happen beyond our control and we must learn to navigate through the chaos. The lyrics evoke a sense of powerlessness in the face of overwhelming circumstances, urging the listener to find solace in acceptance and adaptability.