The Traveller
blest2 Lyrics

In "The Traveller," blest2 delves into the complex emotions that arise from migration and personal growth, illustrating the journey of individuals who navigate through new lands and experiences. The opening lines highlight migrants who are transient yet carry the weight of their histories. Phrases like "riding in on cotton tides of pink and blue" evoke imagery of both hope and vulnerability, suggesting a colorful yet tumultuous journey. The “toll in tears” signifies the sacrifices and pain endured by those who leave their homes behind, compounded by the added burden of ‘borrowed years’—moments lost or spent in transition. This mix of joy and fear reflects the duality of their experience as they seek to redefine their lives in an unfamiliar setting, embracing both laughter and the anxieties that inevitably come with starting anew.

As the song progresses, the artist contemplates the essence of adulthood and self-identity. The metaphor of "clumsy crayons crossing out my youth" speaks to the imperfect and sometimes chaotic nature of growing up, suggesting that the transition into adulthood is not just a change in age but a redefinition of oneself. The singer reflects on the passage of time, noting that while they carry remnants of their past selves, these memories take up "less space" as they adapt. The imagery of months and weeks 'picking up their pace' hints at life’s relentless forward motion, evoking a sense of urgency and the feeling that time slips away faster as one matures. It portrays a deeply introspective state where the intersections of past and present are examined closely, questioning how they shape one's identity.

The lyrics continue to explore the notion of uncertainty and existential doubt, suggesting that life is filled with complexities that often lead to feelings of helplessness. The lines “doubts and shouts and smiles are blinks of an eye” capture the fleeting nature of human emotion. This acknowledgement of life’s transient moments conveys a sense of vulnerability, as each moment is both significant and ephemeral. The artist emphasizes the lack of clear direction—“no right choice, just a bunch of wrong ones to pick”—which resonates with the struggles many face when navigating life’s myriad paths. The “dusty and big” day symbolizes the overwhelming nature of existence, as individuals grapple with the weight of decisions in a world that feels both boundless and oppressive.

In the final verse, the artist transitions towards a message of hope and assurance, particularly aimed at a younger generation, possibly a child. The phrase “I can only give you what I’ve made of myself so far” encapsulates the sentiment of parental responsibility and the desire to provide guidance despite one’s own imperfections. The acknowledgment of the world's vastness, along with its inherent challenges, underscores a commitment to being a source of support. The refrain “I swear I’ll be there when you look” reaffirms a promise of presence and reliability amidst life’s uncertainties. The closing words in German—“mit barn, mein Kind” (with children, my child)—intensify the emotional weight of this pledge, expressing a deep familial bond and the enduring love that transcends the struggles faced throughout life's journey.