Song Meaning
Liz Phair's "Meant To Be (Instrumental)" circles a core of intimate reassurance. The lyrics, while sparse, construct a haven, a space defined by the powerful bond between two people. The opening lines, "We have everything we need here / We have everything between us," immediately establish this sense of self-sufficiency and mutual dependence. It's a declaration of emotional completeness, a shield against external anxieties. The phrase "it ain't never gonna leave us" reinforces the permanence of this connection, suggesting a deep-seated trust and commitment. The "nothing left to fear" line acts almost as a mantra. This isn't naive optimism; it's a conscious choice to prioritize the internal world they've built together. Whether this is a romantic relationship, a close friendship, or even a familial bond, the song emphasizes the power of shared experience and unwavering support. The "dear" here is significant. It's a term of endearment that indicates a deep well of affection.
The impulse to escape, however fleeting, is evident in the lines about getting a room downtown or driving to the next town. This isn't necessarily an escape *from* each other, but perhaps an escape *with* each other, a conscious effort to carve out moments of solitude and connection amidst the chaos of daily life. The repetition of "get away from our family" suggests a desire to create a space that is solely their own, free from external pressures and expectations. The desire isn't to leave the family forever, but to create a space to nurture the love between the two people in the song.
The chorus, with its emphasis on bodily experience – "Let your body move real slow / Tell your body we left yesterday / Let your body hold me close / Let your body move you" – shifts the focus from the mental to the physical. It's an invitation to be present in the moment, to surrender to the sensations of touch and movement. "We left yesterday" could indicate a leaving behind of past troubles and traumas. The body is invited to lead, to intuitively guide the relationship forward. The inclusion of an instrumental section further underscores the importance of non-verbal communication and the unspoken language of physical intimacy. The song's meaning lies not just in the words, but also in the spaces between them, in the shared silences and the gentle rhythm of being together.