Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “Night Feelings” by Man Overboard
“Night Feelings” by Man Overboard is a song about the longings and anxieties of a relationship. It’s about feeling all kinds of emotions for another person, even when they are not aware of or reciprocating them. The song describes the inner turmoil of wanting to be together with someone, but being unable to express those feelings without worry or risk of rejection.
The chorus speaks to the lingering doubts that can come with love; “Oh, I can’t explain these night feelings with clarity, when the lights turn off I can’t tell you how I feel.” It is not uncommon to feel a sense of fear when you develop feelings for someone and are unsure whether you should let them know how you feel. The narrator confesses that in the light of day, he can keep his feelings at bay, but in the dark, the truth of how he feels about the person is revealed.
The verses explore the idea of wanting to be with someone, even when you know that it won’t work out. The narrator yearns to be by their side, and admits that he “can’t help but dream” of what could be. He admits that he “keeps wishing on a star” but unfortunately it is never enough. He longs to be there for the person, but in the end the feelings are simply not returned.
“Night Feelings” is a powerful story of unrequited love; of wanting something so desperately, but never being able to achieve it. It speaks to the confusion and sadness of knowing that even if we try, we may never quite get what we want. The song is short, but the message, emotions, and feelings of the narrator shine through.