The Return
Water & Bodies Lyrics

In the opening lines of "The Return" by Water & Bodies, the singer expresses feelings of despair and hopelessness, suggesting that they may as well be dead. This sentiment conveys a deep sense of emotional pain or detachment from life, possibly due to the overwhelming challenges or struggles they are facing. The mention of Jesus Christ in this context may allude to seeking solace or understanding in religion or spiritual beliefs, highlighting the intensity of the singer's inner turmoil.

The following lines delve into the theme of internal conflict and the impact of past experiences on shaping one's identity. The reference to "training human cogs for the machine" reflects a sense of societal pressure or conformity, where individuals are molded into mere components of a larger system without regard for their individuality or well-being. The mention of a "shell-shocked lunatic" implies a sense of fractured mental state or trauma, suggesting that the singer may feel disconnected or alienated from their surroundings.

The lyrics then take a darker turn as the singer describes the act of bombarding "soft shells" with sticks and stones, metaphorically portraying the destructive force of external influences on vulnerable individuals. The imagery of "unspeakable feelings" buried in a pile underscores the depth of emotional turmoil and past wounds that the singer is grappling with, hinting at unaddressed pain or trauma that continues to haunt them. This passage conveys a sense of emotional vulnerability and the scars left by past experiences that continue to shape the singer's present state.

As the song progresses, the singer reflects on their own sense of disappointment and disillusionment, symbolized by "turning back the stone" of their past. This act of introspection or self-examination signifies a moment of reckoning with one's own shortcomings or unfulfilled expectations, leading to a sense of profound introspection and realization. The mention of returning "home" in this context may suggest a journey towards self-awareness or acceptance, as the singer confronts their own vulnerabilities and struggles in order to move forward and heal from past wounds. Ultimately, "The Return" by Water & Bodies offers a poignant exploration of inner turmoil, emotional resilience, and the transformative power of self-discovery.