The Meaning Behind The Song: Submarines by The Lumineers
Submarines is a beautiful and haunting song by the talented folk-rock band, The Lumineers. Released on December 19, 2009, this heartfelt track has captivated audiences with its poetic lyrics and emotive melody. As a fan of the band, I have always been drawn to the depth and introspection present in their music, and Submarines is no exception.
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Exploring the Lyrics
The lyrics of Submarines carry a profound sense of longing and nostalgia. Through their evocative words, The Lumineers invite listeners to reflect on the passage of time and the impermanence of certain moments in our lives. The song begins with the lines:
We took a dive beneath the waves
And there we let the water fill our lungs
We watched the sky turn blue-grey
Like an old black-and-white movie
These opening lines set the tone for the rest of the song, immediately immersing us in a vivid underwater scene. The metaphorical imagery of diving beneath the waves suggests a desire to escape reality and retreat into a realm of introspection. The reference to an old black-and-white movie evokes a sense of nostalgia, as if reminiscing about a bygone era.
The chorus of the song further emphasizes the transient nature of life’s moments:
Oh, I was tired of life when I threw myself off the pier
And here in the lake, I’m counting my sharks
And I don’t want to swim anymore
Or maybe I do, but not with you
The longing expressed in these lyrics is palpable. The protagonist finds solace in the depths of the lake, counting their “sharks” as a way of measuring the challenges they have faced. The line “And I don’t want to swim anymore” suggests a weariness or disillusionment with life, while the ending phrase “Or maybe I do, but not with you” introduces a sense of unfulfilled relationships or unmet expectations.
Interpreting the Song
While each listener may interpret Submarines differently, for me, this song resonates as a contemplation of personal growth and the realization that some relationships or experiences no longer serve us. It speaks to the bittersweet process of letting go and the courage it takes to dive into the unknown.
Personally, this song has accompanied me during moments of reflection and self-discovery. It has provided solace during times of uncertainty and has reminded me of the importance of embracing change. There is a beauty in acknowledging when something or someone no longer brings us happiness or contributes to our personal growth.
The Collaborative Effort
It is worth noting the collaborative artistry involved in bringing Submarines to life. The song was written by Jeremiah Fraites and Wesley Schultz, the duo behind The Lumineers’ soul-stirring lyrics and melodies. The production of the song was skillfully executed by Ryan Hadlock, while the music video was brought to life by a team of talented individuals including Russell August Anderson and Neil Benjamin.
The Lumineers’ signature blend of instruments, including the piano and guitar, combined with Wesley Schultz’s lead vocals and Neyla Pekarek’s haunting cello, create a musical landscape that perfectly complements the introspective lyrics of Submarines.
In Conclusion
Submarines by The Lumineers is a song that invites listeners to dive deep into their own emotions and reflections. Through poetic lyrics and a melancholic melody, the band encapsulates the transient nature of life and relationships. The song’s meaning may vary for each listener, but it serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing growth and the beauty of letting go when necessary.
So the next time you find yourself drawn into the captivating sounds of Submarines, take a moment to reflect on your own personal journey and the lessons it has taught you. Allow the music to transport you to a place of introspection and appreciate the power that lies within the beauty of music.
