Meaning of Hollow by Noah Kahan

The Noah Kahan song titled 'Hollow' explores themes of aging, self-doubt, and the search for purpose and fulfillment in life. Through introspective lyrics and a moody melody, Kahan delves into the complexities of growing older while grappling with feelings of emptiness and insecurity. This article will delve into the various standout lyrics, uncovering unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the overall message of the song.One of the standout lyrics in 'Hollow' is "I like to think I'm more than what my age is." This line speaks to a common societal perception that age defines a person's worth or capabilities. By suggesting that he is more than his age, Kahan challenges this notion, highlighting the internal struggle of wanting to prove oneself despite the limitations society may place upon individuals based on their age. This theme taps into the universal desire to transcend societal expectations and find personal fulfillment regardless of one's age.Another significant lyric in the song is "I'm scared to check the date, I'm scared of the dark, you can't escape it, no matter how fast the car when you're hollow." This poignant line encapsulates the fear of mortality and the fleeting nature of time. It beautifully captures the underlying theme of the song, which is the fear of aging and the realization that time is constantly slipping away. The mention of being scared of the dark suggests a fear of the unknown and the uncertainty that comes with aging. The reference to the car symbolizes the fruitless pursuit of escaping age and time, highlighting the inescapable reality that no matter how fast one tries to run from the passage of time, it will catch up eventually.Moreover, the lyric "Who do you wanna be in fifty years? I'm saying, 'I just want to be alive,'" conveys the desire for a meaningful existence. While society often emphasizes accomplishments and long-term goals, Kahan emphasizes the importance of cherishing the present moment and embracing life itself instead of obsessing over future aspirations. This theme encourages listeners to focus on the joy of simply being alive and finding purpose in the present, rather than constantly striving for an ideal future that may never arrive.Additionally, the line "I'm smaller than the raindrops on the window, I'm colder than the backside of a pillow" paints a vivid picture of emotional emptiness and vulnerability. It suggests feelings of insignificance and a sense of detachment from one's surroundings. The choice to use raindrops on a window and the backside of a pillow as metaphors emphasizes the solitude and desolation that often come with growing older. This theme touches on the fear of becoming invisible and forgotten as time progresses.Overall, 'Hollow' is a song that addresses the fear of aging, the search for purpose, and the struggle to find fulfillment in life. Through its introspective lyrics, the song explores various unexpected and imaginative themes. The desire to prove oneself despite societal expectations, the fear of mortality, the importance of cherishing the present, and the emotional emptiness that aging can bring all contribute to the overarching theme of the song. 'Hollow' provides a poignant and honest portrayal of the complexities that come with growing older while offering a message of hope and a reminder to embrace the present moment.