Song meaning of Gills and Tails by Amel Larrieux

The lyrics of "Gills and Tails" by Amel Larrieux metaphorically express feelings of suffocation and longing for freedom and relief. The protagonist feels trapped in a world that is not meant for them, symbolized by being underwater with gills and tails instead of lungs and legs. This underwater world represents a suffocating and oppressive environment where they feel out of place and unable to thrive.

The repeated question "Can I come up for air?" reflects a desire to escape this suffocating environment and return to a place where they can breathe freely and feel alive again. The yearning for air and oxygen represents a longing for freedom, autonomy, and a sense of belonging.

Overall, the song conveys a message of struggling to survive in a challenging and restrictive environment, while also expressing hope for a way out and a return to a more fulfilling existence. The lyrics ultimately speak to the universal human experience of seeking liberation from oppressive circumstances.