Meaning of "Stateside" by The Decemberists

The song "Stateside" by The Decemberists delves into the emotions of separation and alienation within a romantic relationship. The imagery of drowning after a party and feeling unable to adequately connect over the phone conveys a sense of disconnection and a lack of fulfillment in communication. The repeated question of whether the other person will call when they return stateside highlights the longing for a connection that seems fleeting and uncertain. The speaker's realization that they will never truly belong serves as a poignant acknowledgment of the disconnect they feel, both physically and emotionally. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of yearning, melancholy, and a sense of not quite fitting in one's surroundings or relationships.