The song "Saltfields" by Underscores conveys a sense of frustration and helplessness in the face of a challenging situation. The repetitive lyrics and do-do melody create a feeling of monotony and being stuck. The protagonist begins by expressing their boredom and realizing that their situation is even worse than they initially thought. They mention someone's ex-boyfriend who is a Jehovah's Witness but still lives life freely. The chorus emphasizes the feeling of being paralyzed, wastefully spending time on finding peace of mind, and feeling unable to help. The repetition of "there's nothing we can do" highlights the resignation and acceptance of their circumstances. In the second verse, the protagonist talks about fearing their own mental state, referring to potentially needing a straightjacket and being in the hospital. They express a desire to distance themselves from others and contemplate someone else opening the door for them. The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the feeling of being paralyzed and unable to make a difference. The protagonist expresses frustration with someone who constantly complains about the dying fish in the sea, possibly symbolizing broader problems in the world. Despite wanting to help, their hands are tied. The song ends with a repetition of the chorus, accompanied by snippets of dialogue that add depth to the storytelling. These snippets make it seem like the protagonist is in a recording studio or a rehearsal space. Overall, "Saltfields" portrays a sense of frustration, helplessness, and a desire for change in a repetitive and stagnant situation. The lyrics suggest a longing for something more meaningful and an acknowledgment that sometimes there's nothing they can do.
