Row

The Growlers' song "Row" delves into themes of conquest, escape, and the human tendency to seek new beginnings, often at the expense of others. The repeated exhortation to "row" serves as a metaphor for pushing forward, regardless of the moral or ethical implications. The lyrics suggest a journey not just of physical movement but of a deeper, more troubling quest for domination and exploitation. The line "When we find a land to rape" starkly highlights the destructive nature of this pursuit, evoking historical conquests where new lands were taken with little regard for the existing inhabitants or ecosystems.

The song also touches on the idea of transformation and loss of identity. Phrases like "Keep your faith but lose your shape" and "Don't let your good heart break" suggest a struggle to maintain one's core values while being swept along by the tide of ambition and desire. The imagery of "virgin land with sandy lips" and "hairless meat as sweet as memories we keep" further emphasizes the objectification and commodification of new territories and experiences. This portrayal is both alluring and unsettling, reflecting the dual nature of human exploration and exploitation.

In the latter part of the song, there's a sense of inevitability and resignation. The stars, which "show us more than black," symbolize guidance and hope, yet the repeated refrain of "We gonna leave everything behind" underscores a relentless drive to escape the past and forge a new future, no matter the cost. The song captures the tension between hope and fear, ambition and morality, making it a poignant commentary on the human condition and our perpetual quest for more.