Meaning of "Ocean" by The Front Bottoms

The lyrics of "Ocean" delve into themes of fear, vulnerability, and self-doubt. The narrator opens the song by describing how the other person is unreachable and distant, almost highlighting a sense of emotional unavailability. The mention of lying about seeing shooting stars suggests a lack of trust and honesty in their relationship. The contrast between the narrator's perceived weakness and the other person's intelligence emphasizes a power dynamic and an underlying feeling of inadequacy. This feeling is further highlighted through the line, "You stayed shallow, I went too deep," implying that the narrator's deeper emotional investment was unmatched.

The mention of being scared to live by the ocean adds another layer to the lyrics. The ocean serves as a metaphor for the vastness and unpredictability of life. The narrator's fear of living by the ocean could represent their trepidation about facing the unknown or their fear of taking risks. It could also relate to their fear of deep emotional connections and the fear of getting hurt. The line, "I fell to my knees, while the waves hit me like I was on the beach," portrays the overwhelming and relentless nature of the narrator's emotions and the challenges they face.

The last few lines indicate a shift in perspective, where the narrator realizes that their struggles are not just limited to their individual relationship but extend to their interaction with the wider world. The mention of being on tour or with the boys suggests a desire for escapism or a longing for a different life. However, the narrator acknowledges that their problems are not solely about their personal relationship but also about their perception of themselves in the context of society.

Overall, "Ocean" explores the themes of emotional distance, vulnerability, and fear of the unknown. It illuminates the internal struggle of the narrator as they navigate their personal relationships and their place in the world.