The song "Calm You" by Underscores explores themes of seeking validation, the struggles of communication, and the need for emotional support. The lyrics suggest a sense of frustration and confusion in a relationship, as the protagonist tries to express themselves but feels their efforts are not good enough. The opening lines convey the difficulty in conveying one's thoughts and emotions. The phrase "You need to bring it up" suggests the need for open communication, while "I tried to write it all down, it wasn't good enough" implies a failed attempt to express oneself. The phrase "These walls ain't thin enough" could symbolize the barriers between the two individuals, hindering effective communication. The protagonist mentions hitting a "higher high" before saying "goodnight," implying that there might have been good times in the relationship, but these moments are overshadowed by the need for resolution. They express a hope that the other person means well and asks for their help if needed. The line "I'll wait another day, tell myself that it's okay" showcases their willingness to be patient and hopeful for a resolution. The chorus repeatedly asks if the situation is what the other person desired. They mention that someone needs to call out the issues and someone needs to calm the other person down. This suggests a lack of clarity and understanding in the relationship, with the need for someone to take charge and help alleviate the tension. The following verses touch upon the passage of time and the protagonist's struggle to maintain stability. The lines "Wished you every 3 to 5, turned to 10, and it was likely" indicate that they had high hopes for the relationship, but it didn't meet their expectations. They express hesitation and the need for patience, mentioning their usual proximity to the situation. The line "Hit a high, a high, never said 'goodbye'" suggests a reluctance to let go despite the difficulties. Throughout the song, the repetition of the phrase "It's okay" indicates the protagonist's attempt to reassure themselves that everything will work out. However, they still yearn for clarity, validation, and support from the other person. In summary, "Calm You" by Underscores conveys the frustration and longing for communication and emotional support within a relationship. It explores the need for validation, the difficulty in expressing oneself, and the desire for resolution and understanding.
