“Wandered to LA” is a deeply emotional song that explores complex themes such as love, addiction, deceit, escapism, search for identity and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, a city often associated with dreams, ambitions, and sometimes, disillusionment, the song narrates a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal struggles.
The mindset of exploration is a recurring theme, coupled with the constant element of surprise and unpredictability of life, embodied by the introduction of unexpected love. The central character of the song starts off his journey hoping to explore LA, not anticipating the deeper, more profound experiences he eventually encounters. The emotions related to the exploration phase not only involve feelings of excitement but also touches upon the loneliness and the need for companionship – a common human desire brought to the fore by his since unexpected romantic encounter.
The song also addresses layers of personal struggles, addiction being one of them. It brings forth the raw and fragile human ways of dealing with emotional distress. It exposes the desperate measures that are sometimes taken to escape reality, showing a darker aspect of human nature.
A sense of betrayal, expressed implicitly, hints at a very human fear of dishonesty in relationships, especially when attempts are coupled with an effort to conceal truth. It sheds light on the damage that deceit can cause, fracturing relationships and fostering skepticism.
The song encapsulates moving on from past mistakes alongside personal growth and understanding the complexity of relationships. By reminiscing about past mistakes and expressing gratitude for overcoming them, the songwriter demonstrates the resilience of the human spirit and the willingness to make a fresh start.
On a broader scale, there is an exploration of the themes of desire and rejection, revealed through the conflicting emotions related to wanting space but also seeking love. This duality shows the complexity of human emotions in relationships – a tug of war between independence and companionship.
At the emotional climax of the song, the lyricist starkly reveals a sense of dread and fear. This fear associated with reality seeping into dreams paints a vivid picture of inner turmoil, adding a layer of vulnerability and fostering empathy among listeners.
In conclusion, “Wandered to L.A.” is a profound exploration of vivacious emotions, personal growth, and complexity of relationships. It’s an illustrative emotional journey that simultaneously explores personal struggle and redemption. It successfully enables listeners to resonate with the gravity of its lyrics, often experiencing the raw and potent cocktail of emotions it offers.