Meaning of "The Gleam" by The Microphones

The lyrics of "The Gleam" by The Microphones evoke a sense of intimacy and impermanence. The imagery of a quiet beach where two people find solace in each other's presence conveys a feeling of fleeting beauty. The reference to bodies burning and turning into smoke and ash symbolizes the ephemeral nature of life and the inevitability of mortality. The line "Where it hurts too much to look, it hurts to try and see" suggests a reluctance to confront the pain and uncertainty of existence. The final line, "At that point we could just step into the gleam," could signify a moment of acceptance or transcendence, where the protagonists are ready to embrace the unknown and let go of earthly worries. Overall, the song captures the bittersweet essence of human connection and the delicate balance between joy and sorrow.