Slide Away

Miley Cyrus's 'Slide Away' is a poignant reflection on change, growth, and the necessity of moving on from a past relationship. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a once-idyllic love that has since faded, symbolized by the metaphorical 'paradise' that has turned to 'dust.' The repeated phrase 'once upon a time' evokes the feeling of a fairy tale that has reached its end, highlighting the contrast between the blissful beginning and the sobering reality of the present.

The chorus of the song, with its plea to 'slide away back to the ocean,' suggests a gentle but firm release of the past. Cyrus contrasts the 'ocean' with 'city lights,' indicating a return to her own path and identity, away from the shared life that no longer serves her. The ocean can be seen as a metaphor for freedom and the natural flow of life, while the city lights represent her individual journey and career. The mention of 'whiskey and pills' alludes to a desire to leave behind not just a relationship, but also the unhealthy coping mechanisms that may have accompanied it.

The song also touches on the theme of growing up and personal transformation. The line 'Move on, we're not seventeen' is a stark reminder that people change over time, and what once was a perfect match may no longer fit. Cyrus acknowledges that both she and her partner have grown, and with that growth comes the realization that it's time to part ways. 'Slide Away' is a mature acknowledgment of life's transitions and the strength it takes to let go of the familiar to embrace the future.