Meaning and Lyrics of Ocean by Darren Kiely

“Ocean” by Darren Kiely is a poignant and emotive song that delves into the complexities of love and the overwhelming nature of emotions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a deep emotional connection that the speaker feels towards another person, using the metaphor of an ocean to convey the vastness and depth of their feelings.

In the first verse, the speaker reminisces about the early stages of their relationship, recalling the moments of their first meeting and the intensity of their connection. The imagery of late October and the taste of it on the other person’s breath create a sense of nostalgia and longing. Despite the passage of time and changing circumstances, the speaker finds it challenging to forget about this person, likening it to a futile struggle against powerful forces, symbolized by the tide.

The chorus captures the overwhelming nature of the speaker’s love, describing it as an ocean that cannot be contained or controlled. The refusal to say goodbye or let go of the other person’s hand reflects the speaker’s reluctance to part ways or move on from this profound attachment. The imagery of waves crashing in and pulling the speaker out again signifies the cyclical nature of their emotions and the recurring pull towards this person.

In the second verse, the sense of despair and vulnerability becomes more pronounced as the speaker admits to being a “hopeless wreck” and dreads facing the night without the other person’s presence. The mention of a time when everything seemed perfect and golden highlights the contrast with the speaker’s current state of longing and yearning for that past joy and connection.

The bridge introduces a moment of inner turmoil and conflict within the speaker, torn between holding on to their feelings and the realization that they may need to let go. The repetition of “let me drift away” suggests a desire to release the emotional turmoil and find peace by distancing oneself from the overwhelming intensity of the situation.

In the final chorus, the speaker acknowledges that their life has been irrevocably changed since meeting the other person, indicating that there is no turning back from the impact of this profound connection. The reluctance to say goodbye or release the other person’s hand persists, further underscoring the deep emotional attachment and the inability to move on despite the tumultuous waves of emotions.

Overall, “Ocean” is a deeply moving song that captures the raw emotions and complexities of love, portraying a narrative of yearning, longing, and the enduring impact of a significant relationship on the speaker’s life. The metaphor of the ocean throughout the song serves as a powerful symbol of the vast and uncontrollable nature of emotions, emphasizing the overwhelming and all-encompassing power of love.