"China Sea" is a song by John Cale which tells the story of a person who is constantly daydreaming and thinking about their lover who is a drug addict in China. The lyrics suggest that the person's mind wanders off to distant places, especially thinking about their boyfriend who is struggling with substance abuse in the coastal region known as the China Sea. The song highlights the concerns and worries of the protagonist's mother who tries to assure them that everything will be alright despite the difficult circumstances. The mention of the steamer whistle represents a moment of sadness and longing as it reminds the protagonist of their lover who loved sailing and perhaps had a deep emotional connection to the sea. Overall, "China Sea" can be interpreted as a bittersweet reflection on love, addiction, and the longing for connection in the face of distance and struggles. The song carries a sense of melancholy with the repeated refrain of the chorus representing the haunting sound of the steamer whistle blowing, serving as a reminder of the protagonist's emotional turmoil.
