Meaning of "Letter By The Water" by The Japanese House

The lyrics of "Letter By The Water" by The Japanese House delve into themes of longing, uncertainty, and the desire for escape. The song starts with the narrator being drawn back down to the waterfront, seeking solace in the sunlit hue and the comforting warmth it brings to their body. They mention a man that the person they're addressing loves, but it's unclear to the narrator. This uncertainty is juxtaposed with the feeling of a cold, wet hand against their mother's spell, suggesting a contrasting sense of vulnerability and security.

The water serves as a recurring motif throughout the song, symbolizing a longing for escape and emotional release. The narrator pleads with the water to bring their body in, emphasizing the unconditional love they feel from the water, and potentially seeking a deeper connection or understanding with it. The water becomes a place of refuge, a sanctuary where the narrator can escape from the complexities and uncertainties of the world.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of self-doubt and the desire for validation. The line "I was so unsure you ever had the gall" suggests that the narrator questions whether someone truly cared about them, highlighting their own insecurities and need for reassurance. They express a sense of not needing this validation at all, perhaps indicating a resolve to become more self-assured and independent.

The final verse explores the idea of cleansing and renewal. The narrator calls on the water to clean the remains of the dirt that it leaves, symbolizing a desire to shed past burdens and start afresh. They strive to be brave, alert, and untainted, yet acknowledge the presence of a stain in their heart.

Overall, "Letter By The Water" speaks to the longing for escape, the search for emotional connection, and the complexities of self-doubt and personal growth. The water serves as both a physical space of solace and a metaphorical representation of emotional release and cleansing.