Meaning of "Submarines" by The Lumineers

The lyrics of "Submarines" delve into themes of truth, credibility, and the isolation that comes from being misunderstood. The narrator's assertion that they have seen submarines becomes a metaphor for truth that goes unheard and unbelieved. The disbelief and ridicule faced by the narrator highlight the struggle one faces when their words are dismissed and their credibility questioned. The narrator's plea for attention and validation becomes a desperate cry for their truth to be heard. By emphasizing the isolation and frustration experienced by the narrator, the song captures the universal experience of feeling unseen and unheard.

The repetition of the phrase "Submarine, can't find me, submarine" conveys a sense of hiding and being elusive. It can be interpreted as the narrator's way of symbolically retreating and protecting themselves from the disbelievers. The line "In the end, it boils down to credibility, I had none, so I will die with the secrets of the sea" is a poignant statement about the consequences of not being believed. The narrator understands that their truth will not be acknowledged or validated, and the weight of carrying these unacknowledged secrets becomes a burden that they will take to their grave.

The song also touches on the power dynamics at play when individuals challenge established narratives or authorities. The police dismissing the narrator's sighting as a joke reflects a scenario in which those in positions of authority can easily dismiss and silence those who challenge the accepted reality. This can leave individuals feeling powerless, isolated, and even questioning their own sanity.