"From The Stem" by Joshua Burnside is a song that explores themes of isolation, introspection, and the complexity of the world. The lyrics paint a picture of a seemingly mundane setting - old wine, trainers, cheap wine, board games, bored southern kids - suggesting a sense of stagnation and a desire for something more. The chorus, "The man at the door, he is speaking in tongues, all money and war, but the hardest rain falls on the ocean" touches on the idea that even in the midst of our daily struggles and conflicts, nature's power and beauty remain untouched. It implies that despite the chaos and noise of the world, there is a deeper tranquility that prevails. The song also touches upon the idea of escape and finding solace in simplicity. Lines like "We could live here right on the shore, right under the table" express a longing for a more carefree and uncomplicated existence. As the lyrics progress, the tone becomes more introspective. The verse "From the stem to the stern, I pace the deck, trying to remember, trying to forget, how the world spins, oh the world spins, maybe it don't" suggests a struggle to make sense of the world and one's place within it. The constant motion and uncertainty of life are reflected in the spinning world, leaving the speaker questioning its true nature and their own role within it. The song's conclusion shifts towards a more hopeful note with the lines "Drain the ocean and we can walk all the way home, from crab pinch to fox tooth, we were born all alone." Here, the idea of finding our way back to simplicity and connection is presented. It implies that even though we may feel alone and lost at times, there is still the potential for a deeper sense of belonging and unity. Overall, "From The Stem" is a contemplative song that encourages reflection on the state of the world, the search for meaning, and the possibility of finding solace and connection amidst the chaos.
