“Myth” is a song by American dream pop duo Beach House, released as the lead single from their fourth studio album, Bloom, on March 26, 2012. The track showcases the band’s signature ethereal sound, characterized by lush synths and haunting vocals by Victoria Legrand.
Lyrically, “Myth” explores themes of identity, emotional complexity, and the fleeting nature of happiness. The song invites listeners to reflect on personal narratives and the myths we create to navigate life’s challenges, ultimately seeking clarity and connection amidst uncertainty. Its rich instrumentation and introspective lyrics have resonated deeply with fans, solidifying Beach House’s place in the dream pop genre.
In this article, we’ll explore the message conveyed in the song’s lyrics.
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“Myth” Lyrics Meaning
[Verse 1]
Drifting in and out, you see the road you’re on
It came rollin’ down your cheek
, you say just what you mean
And in-between, it’s never as it seems
The opening lines, “Drifting in and out, you see the road you’re on / It came rolling down your cheek”, evoke a sense of introspection and emotional vulnerability. The imagery suggests a fluctuating awareness of one’s life path and the realization of emotional pain, symbolized by tears. The phrase “you say just what you mean / And in-between, it’s never as it seems” highlights the difficulty in articulating true feelings amidst life’s complexities, suggesting that perceptions can often be misleading.
[Chorus]
Help me to name it
Help me to name it
The repeated plea, “Help me to name it”, signifies a deep desire for clarity and understanding. This request reflects a struggle to define emotions or experiences that feel overwhelming or ambiguous. It underscores a universal quest for identity and meaning in the face of life’s uncertainties.
[Verse 2]
If you built yourself a myth, you’d know just what to give
What comes after this momentary bliss?
The consequence of what you do to me
In this verse, “If you built yourself a myth, you’d know just what to give / What comes after this momentary bliss?”, the lyrics delve into the concept of self-created narratives or illusions that people construct to make sense of their lives. The reference to “momentary bliss” suggests that such myths may provide temporary satisfaction but also raise questions about their long-term consequences. The line “the consequence of what you do to me” hints at the emotional impact these myths have on relationships and personal well-being.
[Chorus]
Help me to name it
Help me to name it
The chorus repeats again, reinforcing the ongoing search for meaning and understanding in one’s experiences. This repetition emphasizes the urgency and importance of this quest.
[Bridge]
Found yourself in a new direction
Arrows fallin’ from the sun
Canyon callin’,
would they come to greet you?
Let you know you’re not the only one
The bridge introduces a shift with lines like “Found yourself in a new direction / Arrows falling from the sun”. Here, there’s an implication of discovery and enlightenment, suggesting that change can lead to new insights. The imagery of “canyon calling” evokes a sense of longing for connection and reassurance, reinforcing that one is not alone in their struggles. This section encourages embracing new paths rather than clinging to old beliefs.
[Verse 3]
Can’t keep hangin’ on to what is dead and gone
If you built yourself a myth, you’d know just what to give
Materialize or let the ashes fly
In this final verse, “Can’t keep hangin’ on to what is dead and gone”, there’s a powerful call to let go of past attachments and illusions that no longer serve a purpose. The repetition of “If you built yourself a myth, you’d know just what to give” reiterates the importance of self-awareness in recognizing what truly matters. The concluding lines “Materialize or let the ashes fly” suggest a choice between manifesting one’s potential or allowing past experiences to fade away.
Deeper Meaning Behind “Myth”
The song “Myth” by Beach House delves into profound themes of identity, change, and the human experience. The lyrics suggest a journey through the complexities of life, where the narrator grapples with feelings of uncertainty and the desire for clarity. The opening lines, “Drifting in and out, you see the road you’re on,” evoke a sense of searching for direction amidst life’s transient nature. This imagery reflects a universal struggle to find one’s place in the world, underscoring the emotional weight carried by many during pivotal moments in their lives.
A significant aspect of “Myth” is its exploration of the concept of self-created narratives. The repeated plea for assistance—”Help me to name it”—highlights a struggle to articulate one’s feelings and experiences. This yearning for understanding suggests that individuals often construct their own myths or stories to make sense of their realities. The line “If you built yourself a myth, you’d know just what to give” implies that these personal narratives can provide guidance and clarity, yet they may also lead to disillusionment if they become too detached from reality.
The theme of change is prevalent throughout the song, as it encourages listeners to embrace transformation rather than cling to the past. Phrases like “Can’t keep hanging on to what is dead and gone” emphasize the necessity of letting go of outdated beliefs and attachments. This notion resonates deeply in a world where personal growth often requires releasing what no longer serves us. The imagery of “arrows falling from the sun” symbolizes moments of enlightenment and newfound direction, urging individuals to seek deeper connections beyond superficial pursuits.
Moreover, “Myth” captures the tension between existence and non-existence with lines like “Materialize / Or let the ashes fly.” This haunting dichotomy presents listeners with a choice: to solidify their identity or to release it entirely. It speaks to the transient nature of life and the constant negotiation between being and non-being that defines human existence. As such, the song serves as a poignant reminder that while we may struggle against our circumstances, there is beauty in the pursuit of understanding oneself amidst chaos.
In essence, Beach House’s “Myth” encapsulates a journey of awakening—a call to detach from illusions and embrace a more authentic existence. It reflects a deep-seated desire for connection, understanding, and spiritual fulfillment, resonating with anyone who has navigated the complexities of identity and change in their own life.
Jacob Carter is a lyricist. He created the lyrics writing course to teach people how to analyze and write lyrics. He graduated from the University of Oxford with a degree in English Literature, so he’s skilled at playing with words.
He’s also an amateur guitarist, which means he knows music and melody very well. With this background, he’s a great lyricist you can rely on to learn writing lyrics.