Meaning of "Leaving Home" by The Mountain Goats

"Leaving Home" paints a poignant picture of a family leaving their familiar life behind in search of something unknown. The imagery of the shrinking China and water everywhere symbolizes the sense of loss and displacement that comes with leaving one's home. The cold wind from the north represents the harsh realities of starting over. The lyrics capture the bittersweet feeling of leaving the past behind while also recognizing the uncertainty of what lies ahead. The focus on the baby passing back and forth between the parents underscores the theme of carrying the next generation forward into an uncertain future. Overall, the song conveys a mix of hope, nostalgia, and melancholy that comes with leaving home.