Meaning of “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” by Radiohead
The lyrics of “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” express deep emotional turmoil and vulnerability. The “deepest ocean” and “bottom of the sea” can be seen as metaphors for feeling lost or going through deep emotional struggles.
The repetition of “your eyes, they turn me” suggests a strong connection or attraction to someone, which leads the speaker to question why they should “stay here”, possibly in a situation or state of mind that brings them pain.
Following this person feels like a must, even if it leads to unknown or dangerous territories, represented by “the edge of the Earth”. Despite the risks, it seems like an opportunity for escape, a chance to start anew, even if it means facing “weird fishes” and “worms,” which imply difficulties and challenges.
The desire for “escape” that’s repeated at the end signals a desperate wish to break free and find relief from their current situation. It’s a song rich with emotion and the struggle of deciding whether to stay in a familiar yet painful place or take a risk for the chance at happiness.
“I get eaten by the worms
And weird fishes
Picked over by the worms
And weird fishes
Weird fishes
Weird fishes”
My Personal Interpretation of “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi”
I think this talks about falling in love and dreaming big, but then getting hit with worries that stop you from going forward. The ocean here kind of stands for the deep part of your mind. This therefore shows that this might be a tale of figuring oneself out and getting better, all thanks to love. It also hints that artists dive into their own deep thoughts to find fresh ideas to work on, kind of like taking a deep sea dive into their own feelings.
When was “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” released?
“Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” was released on 10th October, 2007. It is the fourth track on Radiohead’s seventh album, “In Rainbows”.
Writing Credits for “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi”
The band’s members composed this. They are:
- Philip Selway
- Ed O’Brien
- Colin Greenwood
- Jonny Greenwood
- Thom Yorke
Production Credits
English record producer, Nigel Godrich, worked once more with Radiohead to produce this track. He has produced eight of their albums.
NOTE: “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” secured a place in Rolling Stone‘s 21st century top 100 songs list.
