SYML “Fear of the Water” Lyrics Meaning

SYML is the solo project of Brian Leseney Fennell, formerly a member of the indie band Barcelona. SYML dropped his first self-titled album on May 3, 2019, under Nettwerk Records.

One standout track from SYML is “Fear of the Water,” where the lyrics dive into hidden meanings and profound emotions. The song explores themes of love, heartache, self-doubt, and the intricate dynamics of relationships.

Let’s delve into a detailed analysis of the lyrics, unraveling the emotions and messages that “Fear of the Water” seeks to express.

“Fear of the Water” Lyrics Meaning 

Now, let’s look at some verses to uncover the meaning behind “Fear of the Water”.

Verse 1

“Some ancient call, that I’ve answered before

It lives in my walls, and it’s under the floor

If this was meant for me, why does it hurt so much?

And if you’re not made for me, why did we fall in love?”

The first four lines of this song resemble another track called “Ancient Call” by SYML, where the term “Ancient Call” signifies a distant past connection.

In this song, the singer describes how the call resides within his walls, symbolizing his heart. The phrase “under the floor” suggests that this call is deeply hidden within him. The singer reflects on the idea that if the love’s call was meant for him, it would be destiny—a blessing from God.

However, despite this sense of destiny, the singer shares that the experience only brought him pain. It appears that Brian Leseney Fennell may be reminiscing about a past love that didn’t work out and left him feeling hurt. Nevertheless, he still longs for that person today.

Pre-Chorus:

“Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no”

The repeated “Oh no” in the pre-chorus shows that the singer is feeling increasingly anxious and worried. It implies that they are starting to understand the intensity of their feelings and the possibility of getting hurt.

Verse 2:

“A knock at my door, I thought I was alone

Unaware of what I thought I needed, I drop like a stone

If I’m not mistaken, then I was the last one to know

And if you return for me, I’d never want for more”

In the second verse, the singer compares an unexpected intrusion in his life to a “knock at my door.” He had believed he could live independently, assuming his love wouldn’t come back.

Thus, he sings about being “Unaware of what I thought I needed.” This unexpected turn of events hits him hard, making him feel blindsided as if he were the last person on earth to recognize his true feelings.

Ultimately, the singer admits that if his love were to return, it would fulfill his life, leaving him wanting nothing else.

Chorus:

You’re dislocated, don’t be like that

And you smile when you dive in, like you’re never coming back

So hold my body, yeah, hold my breath

See your face when I blackout, I’m never coming back”

The line “You’re dislocated, don’t be like that” appears to be the singer playfully teasing his love. Even though she has returned to him, he senses a distance in her posture or positioning, prompting him to implore, “don’t be like that.”

The girl understands his message and responds by moving closer, accompanied by a smile. As she holds the singer close, he finds himself breathless, as if this encounter might be their last, and she might “never come back.”

Despite the singer’s inner insecurities, he yearns to etch the image of her face into his memory before succumbing to unconsciousness, contemplating the idea of not returning to the world. This profound emotional connection symbolizes an intense love that transcends the singer’s fear of living without her.

Post-Chorus:

“Fear of the water, fear of the water”

The recurring phrase “Fear of the water” in the post-chorus underscores the primary metaphor where water symbolizes the singer’s fear and anxiety. “Fear of the water” is known as “Aquaphobia.” Here’s what Wikipedia has to say about Aquaphobia:

“Aquaphobia is considered a specific phobia of the natural environment type in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. A specific phobia is an intense fear of something that poses little or no actual danger.”

Love is kind of like an illness. Of course, the singer doesn’t have any medical issues. Still, using “Fear of the water,” i.e., “Aquaphobia,” can signify how strong he felt about the possibility of losing his love.

In addition, “water” has always been a symbol of love. It is believed that our emotions are carried in the water of our bodies—our tears, sweat, blood, and moist breath. However, love can both nurture us and kill us, much like water. Water makes us fear.

Overall Message

“Fear of the Water” by SYML intricately explores the multifaceted nature of love and the emotional roller coaster it entails. The lyrics adeptly employ water as a symbol, portraying both the positive and negative aspects of love. On one hand, love is likened to the nurturing qualities of water; on the other hand, it can also engulf us and become overwhelming, much like water’s drowning potential.

The singer grapples with his own fears and uncertainties while navigating a relationship that may not be entirely beneficial for them.

In the end, the song expresses the intense and raw emotions that come with falling in love, even when it’s mixed with fear and uncertainty.

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