Marina
Rhett Miller Lyrics

Rhett Miller's song "Marina" is an ode to a distant love. The lyrics describe the singer's observation of Marina from afar, under the stars, with the fog rolling across the bay. The repetition of the line "Why you so far away" emphasizes the physical distance between the singer and Marina. However, the singer is still optimistic and hopeful that Marina will "shine a light" on him. The imagery of the white caps and whipping flags add to the feeling of distance and separation, but the promise of love that won't wash away suggests that the singer is committed to doing what it takes to bridge the gap between himself and Marina.

As the song progresses, the singer seems to gain more confidence in the possibility of being with Marina. When he sees the worried look in her eyes, he promises to stay. The line "I see the night rolling into day" suggests a sense of time passing, which could mean that the singer is willing to wait for Marina. The repetition of the chorus in the final stanza, with the addition of "You're not so far away," shows a shift in the singer's perception of the distance between them. The final plea for Marina to "shine a light" suggests that the singer still needs reassurance, but overall, the song conveys a sense of hope and determination in the face of distance and uncertainty.

Overall, "Marina" is a beautiful and heartfelt song that captures the complexity of long-distance love. Rhett Miller's lyrics are simple yet evocative, and the repetition of certain lines adds to the emotional impact of the song. The imagery of the stars, fog, and white caps creates a vivid sense of place, and the theme of distance and longing is universal.