Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “I’m Leaving” by The Maine
‘I’m Leaving’ by The Maine stirs up a mix of emotions of both sadness and excitement. The song is about leaving a comfortable and safe place, either a city or a relationship, with the same sense of longing and reflection. In the chorus, lead singer John O’Callaghan sings: “I’m leaving, but I can’t go yet ’cause I’m scared of where I’m heading to”, which shows his reluctance, but determination in leaving the situation. He also expresses his need to move on and explore the possibilities that may await him: “I know I gotta leave this safe place, just to try to make the best of it.”
Despite leaving, there is a nostalgic tinge to the song as the protagonist reminisces about the memories of his past and his loved ones: “There’s something to be said for the people I love and the things that I’ve known” and “The beauty of the place that I always call home.” The moving lyrics suggest that there is a lingering fear that he won’t be able to return home and once he does, it will no longer be the same, thus further strengthening his reluctance to leave.
Ultimately, ‘I’m Leaving’ is a song about losing what’s familiar and being aware of the potential risks of the future. However, the song captures the bittersweet feeling of embracing the changes that life brings – an optimistic view that despite leaving or being left, it won’t be the end but a new beginning.