“Lydia” by Highly Suspect is a deeply emotional song. At its core, it’s about a tumultuous relationship, contrasting love and pain. The shark symbolizes overwhelming emotions and destructive behavior, while the drowning girl represents vulnerability and sacrifice. The songwriter addresses feelings of regret, echoing memories of love lost yet still yearned for. The reference to better days signifies a yearning for past innocence and the challenges of confronting bitter truths. It centers around a specific person, possibly an old love or close friend. The purpose? Perhaps to express the deep-seated feelings and the internal struggles the songwriter grapples with.
Looking to uncover the soul of this song? You’re in for a rollercoaster of emotions and metaphors.
“Lydia” Lyrics Meaning
“Black ocean, cold and dark…” – The imagery of a black ocean sets a melancholic tone, representing the depth and vastness of the emotions involved. The hungry shark, cold and relentless, symbolizes the overpowering nature of feelings and perhaps the singer’s consuming guilt or regret.
“But the only girl that could talk to him just couldn’t swim…” – This line is heart-wrenching. It showcases the vulnerability of the one person who could connect with him, emphasizing the tragic disconnect in their relationship.
“It echoes in the halls, They danced along the walls…” – Memories continue to haunt, symbolized by the dancing along the walls. A lingering connection emphasizes the singer’s inability to let go.
“You are the one that I used to love…” – A powerful declaration of enduring love, hinting at the complexities and challenges that have torn them apart.
“I’ve seen your best and worst…” – An intimate connection is evident. They’ve been through highs and lows, but even at her worst, she stands out to him.
“Black tears don’t hide in rain…” – A profound metaphor. The rain, often symbolizing cleansing or renewal, cannot mask the depth of their sorrow.
“I tied you to the tracks…” – Potentially symbolizing his role in their relationship’s downfall or the danger he posed to her, culminating in irreversible actions.
“What’s worse is all the coke…” – The introduction of substance abuse as a coping mechanism, hinting at deeper emotional turmoil and the lengths one might go to escape pain.
The Story Behind “Lydia”
“Lydia” is not just a song but an introspective journey. Written during a tumultuous period in the band’s history, it’s a reflection of personal struggles, especially those of the lead singer, Johnny Stevens. Facing the challenges of fame, the pressures from the music industry, and personal relationships, Stevens used “Lydia” as a medium to communicate these internal battles.
The emotional weight of the song, combined with the raw intensity of the lyrics, suggests a deeply personal connection. Rumor has it that “Lydia” is about a significant relationship in Stevens’ life that faced challenges. The ups and downs, the guilt, the moments of euphoria, and the abyss of despair – all encapsulated in the lyrics.
The mention of substance abuse is a stark reminder of the lengths people sometimes go to escape their realities. For Highly Suspect, music became both an escape and a form of therapy. “Lydia” remains a testament to their artistry, resilience, and the universality of human emotions.