Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “The Whale and Jonah” by The Sidekicks
The Sidekick’s song ‘The Whale and Jonah’ is a powerful allegory between facing one’s inner demons and recognizing the inescapable journey before us. Often the same difficulties, which can feel like an insurmountable challenge, being carried away from one’s comfort zone to the place of growth and healing.
The song’s vivid imagery captures the struggle between Jonah and the whale as they swim deep below the surface of the water, away from the shore and to safety. As they journey, Jonah is overwhelmed by fear and a sense of helplessness. In grappling with his emotions, he questions if this journey will bring relief or greater suffering. This allegory speaks to the inner turmoil that can arise as one works to confront their inner demons. It also captures the uncertainty of the process, the stepping into unknown depths where one does not know what will come to pass.
The chorus––“I cannot breathe, I cannot be free, travel on the whale and me”––represents the struggle that can accompany this journey of confronting the inner self. Feeling overwhelmed, unable to control the journey, and taken someplace that is out of their comfort zone. Even so, as Jonah sinks, a hope emerges. With the whale, he has a partner who will “travel side by side”. The reassurance that there is a companion to help carry the burden of this difficult path provides hope and solidarity in a challenging process.
Ultimately, the song’s message is one of perseverance, trusting the process and one’s inner strength to work through the deepest depths of oneself. Through recognizing what lies beneath the surface and embracing the fragility that comes along with vulnerability, real and lasting healing can be found.