This track by Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness is a passionate anthem about fearlessly embracing life’s adventures, the unknowns, and taking risks, with love as the guiding force. The song is metaphorically rich, likening love to the daring act of being shot out of a cannon, defying gravity and normalcy. McMahon seems to be telling a tale about a bond so strong it transcends earthly constraints. It’s not just about love for another person, but love for the journey, adrenaline, and shared experience of life’s roller coaster.
Ever felt love so intense it’s as if you’re soaring? Well, McMahon might just put those feelings into words for you.
“Shot Out Of A Cannon” Lyrics Meaning
The song acknowledges potential adversities: “Even with the lights and the power down.” No matter what happens, no matter the hurdles, McMahon expresses that the bond they share remains unshaken. It’s evident in phrases like “Even when the earth shakes and breaks your crown.” This is a testament to a resilient love that can withstand hardships.
Moving on to the chorus, the analogy of being “Shot out of a cannon” is powerful. McMahon talks about the exhilarating feeling of love, comparing it to the rush of being fired into the skies, challenging the laws of physics. The line “And you’re the drug that’s keeping me from landing” indicates the intoxicating and addictive nature of this love. This isn’t a subdued, tepid love. It’s fiery and full of passion.
The idea of “leaving for another planet” signifies a desire to escape the mundane, to be in a realm only they understand. It emphasizes the otherworldly, transcendent nature of their relationship.
The bridge delves into the symbol of the “neon sign.” In the midst of darkness and uncertainty (“In the dark, in the dark, in the dead of night”), a lover’s heart can be a beacon, guiding and offering solace.
The song is an intricate mix of romance, adventure, and the thrill of the unknown. McMahon, through evocative metaphors and vibrant imagery, beautifully encapsulates the fervor of love that feels like an unforgettable journey. Every line is a reminder that with the right person, love isn’t just about comfort but about exhilarating adventures faced fearlessly together.
The Story Behind “Shot Out Of A Cannon”
Andrew McMahon is no stranger to crafting songs that delve deep into personal experiences and emotions. Many of his songs have historically tapped into various phases of his life, be it his battle with leukemia or the bliss of becoming a father. “Shot Out Of A Cannon” seems to encapsulate a different kind of adventure that revolves around love and unbridled passion.
During this song’s release, McMahon was deeply entrenched in his project, “In the Wilderness.” This project was all about exploration—both literal and metaphorical. Venturing into new sonic territories, McMahon also dived into introspective journeys, examining relationships, self-growth, and the continuous search for meaning.
“Shot Out Of A Cannon” might be a representation of that phase in McMahon’s life when he was rediscovering himself, embracing love in its rawest form, and the exhilarating feeling of plunging into the unknown. With a heart that shines “like a neon sign” even in the darkest of times, the song becomes a tribute to the anchor that keeps us grounded amidst life’s tumultuous whirlwinds.