Song Meaning

These lyrics immediately plunge into a raw account of emotional struggle, portraying a speaker repeatedly battered by life's difficulties. Phrases like "I've been afraid" and "been ashamed" establish a deep vulnerability, framing hardships as an inescapable, cyclical force. The core metaphor, "It comes in waves," perfectly captures this feeling of being repeatedly hit by emotional blows. The central tension emerges from the stark contrast between the speaker's profound internal and external struggles and the unwavering support of an unnamed "You." The verses detail a litany of pain—"lost myself," "enemies with my own brain"—highlighting a battle not just with the world, but with the self. This internal turmoil is explicitly framed as a recurring struggle, yet the chorus introduces a powerful counterpoint. The genius here lies in the consistent, extended metaphor of the ocean. "Waves will crash over me" and "water's rising" vividly capture the feeling of being submerged by life's difficulties. However, the lyrics pivot on the steadfast belief that "the tide won't take me," transforming the ocean from a purely destructive force into a test of faith, where the "You" acts as an anchor. What makes these lyrics hit hard is their honest portrayal of enduring hardship alongside an unshakeable trust. The raw vulnerability of admitting "Let somebody steal my pride" or "crushed by fear" creates a powerful emotional connection. Yet, the repeated assurance, "you've never let me drown before," builds a potent sense of hope, suggesting that even in the face of overwhelming odds, resilience is possible through faith in this consistent, supportive presence.