Meaning of Growing Sideways by Noah Kahan

In Noah Kahan's poignant song, "Growing Sideways," the artist delves into the complexities of his journey towards self-discovery and healing. The captivating lyrics beautifully capture the nuances of his emotional struggles and offer a raw and honest portrayal of his experiences. While the song's melody is captivating, it is the captivating themes within the lyrics that truly shine.One of the standout lyrics in the song is, "So I took my medication and I poured my trauma out, on some sad-eyed, middle-aged man's overpriced new leather couch." This lyric explores the theme of seeking help and the important role that therapy plays in the healing process. It highlights the vulnerability and courage it takes to open up about one's trauma and reminds listeners of the importance of addressing and processing past experiences.Another powerful lyric is, "I divvied up my anger into thirty separate parts, keep the bad shit in my liver, and the rest around my heart." This line delves into the theme of compartmentalization and its effects on emotional well-being. It explores the notion of holding onto anger and the ways it can impact different aspects of a person's life. This evocative imagery prompts listeners to introspect and acknowledge the importance of addressing unresolved emotions."I'm still angry at my parents for what their parents did to them, but it's a start," is yet another thought-provoking line that explores generational trauma. It delves into the theme of inherited pain and the complexities of navigating the emotions passed down through generations. This lyric prompts listeners to reflect on the ways our family history shapes our experiences and reminds us of the significance of breaking these cycles to foster personal growth.One recurring theme throughout the song is the concept of moving sideways to ignore and escape one's emotions. The lyrics, "But I ignore things and I move sideways 'til I forget what I felt in the first place," further emphasize this theme. It explores the notion of avoiding confronting difficult emotions and the long-term impact it can have on our lives. It serves as a reminder of the importance of facing our emotions head-on and finding healthier ways to navigate through life's challenges.Another key theme in the song is the fear of not truly knowing oneself. The lyrics, "I'm terrified that I might never have met me," encapsulate this sentiment. It delves into the existential anxiety of feeling disconnected from our true selves and the desperate longing to find authenticity. This theme prompts introspection and invites listeners to question their own journeys of self-discovery.In the bridge of the song, the lyric, "Yeah, it's better to die numb than feel it all," introduces the theme of emotional detachment as a coping mechanism. It explores the idea of choosing to numb oneself rather than confronting overwhelming emotions. This theme sheds light on the complexity of defense mechanisms and emphasizes the importance of allowing oneself to experience and process emotions fully.Ultimately, "Growing Sideways" navigates through a multitude of themes surrounding personal growth, healing, and the pursuit of self-understanding. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of addressing our emotions and journeying towards self-discovery. Through its heartfelt lyrics and captivating imagery, Noah Kahan has crafted a beautiful piece of art that resonates deeply with its listeners, encouraging them to reflect on their own paths of growth and introspection.No matter where we are in our journey, "Growing Sideways" reminds us that it is essential to confront our emotions, seek help when needed, and embrace the process of self-discovery. It encourages self-reflection and empowers individuals to embrace their complexities fully. Through a delicate balance of vulnerability and strength, Noah Kahan has created a powerful song that captures the essence of the human experience and inspires growth and healing for its listeners.