The song "Hug The Harbour" by Emma Pollock tells a story about trust, decision-making, and the consequences of not understanding one's limitations. The lyrics suggest that the narrator trusted someone, possibly a pilot or a metaphorical figure, to guide them safely through life's challenges, symbolized by hugging the harbor and avoiding disaster. However, the person they trusted lacks the necessary understanding and knowledge, which becomes evident when the "horizon goes from view." The lights that were once friends now become an unreliable source of guidance. The people dear to the narrator are also trusting this person, sitting behind them and relying on their expertise. The narrator questions the precision and decision-making skills of the person they trusted, emphasizing the importance of leaving indecision behind. They highlight the lack of understanding, both physically (not knowing up from down due to inner ear problems) and metaphorically. This lack of understanding can lead to fatal consequences, represented by a "fatal landing." The lyrics suggest that when faced with darkness or challenging situations, the person's usual knowledge deserts them. They are unfit to choose when to take flight and lack the necessary qualifications. The narrator met a man who spoke about seeing with the heart, but they disagree and put their trust in physicality instead. The song encourages leaving behind indecision and tired cynicism. The trust lies in precision and expertise when taking off the ground. The narrator pleads with the person to hug the harbor, making things easier rather than harder. They emphasize that matters should be approached with a logical mindset, leaving the heart to its own domain. Overall, "Hug The Harbour" explores the themes of trust, decision-making, limitations, and the consequences of not understanding one's capabilities. It suggests that relying solely on emotions and romanticism can lead to fatal outcomes, and highlights the importance of precision and expertise in navigating through life's challenges.
