Ride
Old 97's Lyrics

The Old 97's song Ride is a composition that presents a balance between the simplicity of speaking of a desire to ride away and the complexity of wanting something that is difficult to obtain. The song begins by creating a contrast between the bright white hot sun and the vast big blue sea, as an image of freedom and vastness to escape from what exists beyond. From the 101, a highway that goes from Los Angeles through Ventura and San Francisco, to the Tapenze, an ancient city of Mexico, there is an imaginary place, a shadow world on the other side, representing both the excitement and uncertainty that lies ahead.

The lyrics express a sense of impatience towards love, as the singer says he will grow impatient for love, but the object of his affection won't acknowledge the damage it might cause him to not get it. The second verse shows that the singer is very focused on his objective to ride, despite the challenges; the dark hollow of the moon and a big black sea from the tomb of the legendary Greek god Apollo to the 405 freeway in Los Angeles, another highway connecting the San Fernando Valley to Irvine, manifest the idea of a vast and hazardous concept of challenge. The final section repeats "Unless I ride" four times to emphasize the urgency of moving forward, both physically and emotionally, but leaving it open to interpretation. Does he need to escape, to find freedom? Or does he need to leave behind what's familiar to chase his heart's dreams?

Overall, Ride's lyrics represent a longing to break free from the monotony of everyday life, experiencing new and exciting opportunities, and exploring the world to ultimately find personal fulfillment.