Meaning of "Oarsman" by The Republic Of Wolves

"Oarsman" delves deep into themes of regret, self-blame, and isolation. The protagonist wakes up haunted by their past mistakes, burdened by their sins symbolized by the "black dove penance" and "covenants" they have broken. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone struggling with the weight of their past decisions and the feeling of being unwelcome in their own life. The references to loss, resignation, and the inability to change resonate with the idea of being trapped in a cycle of regret and self-punishment. The repeated lines "I don't believe I ever had a choice" hint at a sense of fatalism and inevitability in the protagonist's actions, reflecting a feeling of powerlessness. The imagery of a "weary wooden cabinet for your faith" suggests a loss of belief and trust in oneself or others. The final lines reveal a profound sense of loneliness and anonymity, with the protagonist feeling like an "oarsman and no one knew my name," emphasizing their struggle with identity and feeling unrecognized. Overall, the lyrics convey a powerful message of grappling with past mistakes, guilt, and a sense of not belonging, ultimately culminating in a feeling of alienation and disconnection from one's surroundings.