"Killer Whales" by James Vincent McMorrow is a song about self-doubt and the fear of not leaving a mark on the world. The song is written in first-person, and the narrator is struggling with feelings of insignificance. He references the killer whales as a metaphor for the dangers he faces in trying to pursue his passions and goals. The song speaks to the universal human experience of self-doubt and the struggle to find one's place in the world. The narrator is afraid of failure and is constantly trying to find new ways to prove his worth. He calls his lover and tries to make her believe that he's moved on, but he knows deep down that he still loves her and needs her. The chorus of the song repeats the same phrase, "I'm still in love, but I'm not sleeping at night. I'm afraid I could die without leaving a mark." This emphasizes how the fear of failure and lack of self-confidence can consume someone, even if they are deeply in love. The song ultimately suggests that the narrator is coming to terms with his insecurities and recognizing the importance of counting his blessings. He has to learn to live with uncertainty and take risks, even if they seem dangerous, in order to make his mark on the world. In the end, the song speaks to the importance of finding courage in the face of adversity and overcoming one's fears in order to achieve one's dreams.
