The song "Swim Against The Tide" by The Japanese House delves into the struggles of love and the complexities of relationships. The lyrics suggest a sense of longing and vulnerability, as well as a tinge of bitterness and acceptance. The first verse begins with the protagonist being held up high, perhaps implying that they were once admired or put on a pedestal by their significant other. However, the person who holds them up predicts that they will eventually learn to cry, and this prediction turns out to be true. The protagonist finds themselves weeping through the night, possibly due to the realization that their relationship has come to an end. The lyrics continue with the mention of receiving something that feels like summer, which can be interpreted as moments of happiness and warmth within the relationship. Despite the pain and heartbreak they have experienced, the protagonist keeps running back to these blissful memories, almost as if they are addicted to the happiness they once had. The next verse suggests a state of emotional emptiness. The protagonist asks someone to open wide and show them that they are dead inside, indicating a desire for validation that their pain is real. They mention the difficulty of swimming against the tide, which could represent the struggle of going against the natural flow of emotions and trying to move on. The following lines reflect a sense of nostalgia and the longing to find new ways to express the feeling of missing someone. The protagonist acknowledges that it was not difficult to have the person they miss in their life. They describe this person as a figure in the dark, perhaps symbolizing mystery or a hidden presence. The person crept through their thoughts, leaving a lasting impact. Despite the pain and difficult moments, the protagonist acknowledges the allure of their former love. The sun becomes a metaphor for this person, as they describe them as the feet of the sun. They note the irony that, despite the pain, this person keeps coming back into their thoughts. The final verse expresses a plea to hold on and remain resilient, clenching fists and praying for the strength to move forward. The protagonist notes that their spirit grows when love is no longer present, implying a sense of resilience and personal growth. But despite this growth, they still find new ways to say "I miss you," suggesting that they are still processing their emotions and struggling to move on from the lost love. Overall, "Swim Against The Tide" explores themes of heartbreak, longing, and the resistance to let go of someone who has had a significant impact on one's life. The song beautifully captures the complexities of emotions experienced in the aftermath of a breakup and the ongoing struggle to find closure.
