What Child Is This?
ICE (the Island Choral Experience) & Friends Lyrics

The lyrics of "What Child Is This?" by ICE (the Island Choral Experience) & Friends delve into themes of loss, solitude, and longing for a loved one. The opening lines express the emotional void left by the absence of someone important, with the singer feeling the weight of loneliness in the silence and the lack of familiar sounds like door knocks and phone calls. The yearning for connection is palpable as the singer admits to feeling lost and uncertain about their own existence without the presence of this significant other. The desperation for their light and companionship is evident in the plea for their return to alleviate the emptiness that consumes them.

In the subsequent section of the song, there is a repetition of the phrase "Ajumba do the pasta my mama hail am see the pasta Ajumba ya", which could be interpreted as a mantra or a rhythmic expression of a cultural or personal significance. This repetitive chant may symbolize a yearning for familiarity or a connection to one's roots as a source of comfort and strength in the face of emotional turmoil. The repetition of this phrase could also highlight the idea of seeking solace in tradition or heritage during times of distress and uncertainty.

The lyrics further explore the impact of the absence of this loved one on the singer's sense of self and purpose. The memories and frames mentioned serve as reminders of past struggles and the battles faced, suggesting that the relationship was a source of resilience and support in difficult times. Without the love and presence of the other person, the singer feels overwhelmed and on the brink of drowning, emphasizing the importance of their connection in providing stability and emotional buoyancy. The plea for someone to "save" them signifies a cry for help and a desire to be rescued from the depths of despair.

As the song progresses, the repeated refrain of not knowing how one survives or if they are truly alive without the other person underscores the profound impact of their absence. The metaphor of "going down the road with one headlight" speaks to the struggle of navigating life's journey with diminished clarity and guidance in the absence of a cherished companion. The overarching sentiment of feeling lost and incomplete without this individual permeates the lyrics, conveying the profound sense of emptiness and longing experienced by the singer. The haunting refrain of "This is what it feels like" echoes the pervasive ache of separation and the stark realization of the void left behind.