Song meaning of Atlantis by Noah Gundersen (Ft. Phoebe Bridgers)

"Atlantis" by Noah Gundersen featuring Phoebe Bridgers is a haunting and introspective song that delves into themes of self-destruction, love, and the complexities of relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a tumultuous and toxic dynamic between two individuals, using metaphorical imagery to convey a sense of longing, pain, and ultimately, liberation.

In the first verse, the narrator expresses a desire for control and power in the relationship, comparing themselves to Atlantis and their partner to the sea. The violent imagery of wanting to "break your knees" and "cut off your fingers and both of your feet" suggests a deep-seated resentment and a need to prevent their partner from leaving, even as they acknowledge the impossibility of such a situation.

The second verse shifts to a more introspective tone, with the narrator reflecting on their own artistic aspirations and struggles with self-expression. The reference to hanging up a blank canvas titled "The Future" and getting "high off the fumes and die in the paint" speaks to a sense of existential dread and the fear of facing the unknown.

The chorus highlights the narrator's self-awareness of their own melodramatic tendencies, as they imagine themselves as a character in a TV show, playing the role of an addict and a romantic. The mention of being replaced by "some asshole with a better face" hints at feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, while the desire to "steal the costume on my way out" suggests a longing for authenticity and a rejection of superficiality.

The bridge and outro bring the narrative full circle, with the narrator reflecting on past experiences of love and loss. The reference to learning about love in "American cars" and encountering a "dragon" at a young age conveys a sense of innocence lost and the bittersweet nostalgia of youth. The final lines, "If I was Atlantis and you were the sea, I'd sneak up behind you and set you free," encapsulate the paradoxical nature of love and the desire for both connection and freedom.

Overall, "Atlantis" is a poignant and evocative song that explores the complexities of human relationships and the struggle to find meaning and purpose in a world filled with pain and uncertainty. Noah Gundersen and Phoebe Bridgers deliver a powerful performance that resonates with listeners on a deep emotional level, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences of love, loss, and self-discovery.