Meaning of Howling by Noah Kahan

The Noah Kahan song titled 'Howling' is a deeply introspective and emotionally raw piece that explores the complexities of human emotions and the search for meaning in life. The song delves into themes of loneliness, self-doubt, and the struggle to find one's identity in a vast and sometimes overwhelming world. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, 'Howling' unveils a poetic journey of self-discovery and the longing for connection.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "Oh, let's pretend we never met, so I can disappear a moment." This line speaks to the desire to escape from the burdens of reality and the yearning for temporary relief from the weight of one's existence. The theme of escapism is prevalent throughout the song, as it reflects the human tendency to seek solace in fictional narratives or alternate realities as a means to momentarily escape from the struggles of everyday life.Another important lyric that shapes the song's themes is "And somehow, this one word in my mouth that's left unspoken." This line signifies the burden of unexpressed emotions and untold stories. It reflects a fear of vulnerability and the hesitation to confront one's own truth. The theme of unspoken words and concealed emotions further explores the inner conflicts and struggles that individuals face in expressing their true selves, emphasizing the need for acceptance and understanding.The chorus of the song presents the lines, "Is there something keeping me here for the minute, darling? Did you find the key and what is the meaning of it? Honey, sometimes I feel this emptiness howling out." These lyrics convey a pervasive feeling of emptiness and an ongoing search for purpose and significance. The theme of existential questioning is vividly portrayed, as the protagonist contemplates their place in the world and seeks to unravel the cryptic meaning behind their existence. This theme highlights the universal human desire to find meaning and fulfillment in life, urging listeners to reflect on their own quests for purpose.In the bridge of the song, the lyrics "Deep blue, deep blue, 05072" create a sensory image of a vast, endless ocean. This evokes feelings of insignificance and the overwhelming nature of existence. The theme of the ocean symbolizes the deeply complex and mysterious aspects of life, representing the vastness of human experiences, both joyful and painful. It emphasizes the need to navigate through these emotional depths, to confront one's fears, and to find inner strength and resilience.Furthermore, the lyric "Tell me one thing keeping me here for the minute, honey, but if I leave you now, then what's out there waiting for me?" portrays a dilemma between staying in familiar comfort and embarking on a journey of self-discovery. It explores the fear of the unknown and the consequences of leaving behind the safety of the familiar. This theme encourages listeners to question their own choices and confront their fears that may hinder personal growth and fulfillment.In conclusion, 'Howling' by Noah Kahan encapsulates a profound exploration of human emotions and the search for meaning. Through its introspective lyrics, the song delves into themes of escapism, unspoken emotions, existential questioning, the vastness of life, and the fear of the unknown. Ultimately, the song encourages listeners to confront their own fears, embrace vulnerability, and embark on a journey towards self-discovery and personal fulfillment, acknowledging that the search for meaning is an integral part of the human experience.