Meaning of "La Mar" by The Beautiful Girls

The lyrics of "La Mar" explore themes of aging, love, and the passage of time. The songwriter reflects on the beauty and transience of life, capturing the bittersweet essence of the present moment. The fading light and colder wind symbolize the passing of time and the inevitability of change. The narrator acknowledges the uncertainties of life and the lack of answers to profound questions, recognizing that love can be both a heavenly experience and a tormenting one.

The song also delves into the theme of fatherhood and passing wisdom down to the next generation. The narrator, having grown old on the ocean, metaphorically gives his stronger years to it. He devotedly loved his wife, but when she dies, it feels like the ocean has absorbed his tears. The reference to teaching his son suggests a desire to pass on the lessons he has learned about living a genuine life and not succumbing to the expectations of others.

The chorus serves as a reassuring message to the listener. By encouraging them to "sturdy up [their] heart," the narrator acknowledges the challenges of life's long road. Despite being apart, they promise to be with the listener, supporting them along their personal journey. The repetition of "so it goes" in the chorus speaks to the inevitability of life's ups and downs and the gradual slowing of the mind as one ages.

Overall, "La Mar" speaks to the complexities of existence, the fleeting nature of time, and the importance of staying true to oneself. It conveys a sense of longing, wisdom, and resilience, leaving the listener with a poignant reminder to embrace the present moment and to persist in their own unique path.