Song Meaning
The provided lyrics for "How Deep Is the Ocean (How High Is the Sky)" consist solely of the word "Instrumental." This immediately signals an absence of sung words. The focus is entirely on the musical arrangement, rather than a lyrical narrative.
Without any vocal narrative, the listener is left to infer all emotional content from the music itself. This creates a unique tension: the story is told purely through melody, harmony, and rhythm, rather than explicit lyrical statements. The "lyrics" here challenge the listener to engage on a non-verbal level, demanding a different kind of attention. It's a bold move, placing the entire burden of communication on the instrumental arrangement.
The most interesting craft element here is the deliberate choice to omit words entirely. This structural decision, indicated by the single word "Instrumental," forces the music to carry the full weight of expression. It suggests a profound confidence in the composition's ability to convey complex feelings without the aid of a narrator's voice or specific imagery. The absence of a lyrical guide means the musicality itself becomes the primary storyteller, shaping the listener's emotional landscape.
The effectiveness of these "lyrics" lies in their stark minimalism and the space they create. By explicitly stating "Instrumental," the piece invites a deeper, more personal interpretation from each listener, allowing individual experiences to color the sonic landscape. It becomes a canvas for emotional projection, making the experience profoundly subjective and potentially more impactful than a verbally guided narrative. This approach ensures that the music's inherent power takes center stage, resonating on a visceral level.