The song "Fish Roar" by Hunters & Collectors tells a story of desire, rejection, and the struggles in a relationship. The narrator asks their partner to express themselves freely, comparing the request to singing with a powerful and unique voice, akin to a fish's roar. They also reference the partner's wild and untamed appearance, symbolized by their lion-like hair. However, the partner refuses the narrator's request, symbolized by them saying "no". This rejection creates a sense of frustration and longing for the narrator. They further describe themselves as being consumed by emotions, feeling like they are burning up. The mention of dead skin in their bed may represent the remnants of past failed relationships or emotional baggage. The narrator then describes the partner as having a negative and gloomy attitude. They emit a scent reminiscent of dead leaves and constantly bring the narrator down. Despite this, the narrator still tries to revive their relationship by metaphorically rebuilding the partner's bones and injecting humor into their thoughts. Once again, the partner's negativity persists, indicated by their pouting and frowning under a figurative "bomber's moon". This continues to weigh the narrator down, but they also express a desire to level up or improve themselves. In the chorus, the narrator repeats the metaphor of being bent like a long-horn and ridden out west, implying a desire for a transformative experience or escape. They continue to feel intense emotions and the presence of dead skin in their bed, symbolizing unresolved issues and the remnants of past relationships. The song ends with the narrator reflecting on their failed attempt to bring out the partner's true voice and embracing their rejection. The repetition of the phrase "in my bed, sleepy head" implies a resignation or acceptance of their current situation. Overall, "Fish Roar" delves into themes of longing, rejection, and the complexities of relationships. It explores the struggles of trying to elicit genuine expression from a partner who seems resistant to growth and change.
