Ocean

I wrote a fairly lengthy blog post about this track - mostly related to the overall superb programming. However I also interpreted the lyrics in a rather interesting way. Here's the excerpt of my interpretation:

Alison is known for using animals to provide additional imagery in her lyrics - sometimes as proxies for individuals with specific characteristics. She references horses often in a variety of contexts and uses equine imagery in live performances via costumes. In this instance, due to the overall brooding and relentless nature of “Ocean”, I can’t help but think of the Nazgûl - colloquially referred to as ‘Ringwraiths’, ‘Dark Riders’ or ‘the Nine’ - from J. R. R. Tolkien’s legendarium. There’s nothing else here that suggests Tolkien influence whatsoever, so it’s probably just me taking a few leaps. However, given this interpretation, one could continue making connections when these lyrics are viewed from the perspective of Samwise and his relationship with Frodo during their journey through The Lord of the Rings. In which case, despite Samwise’s overall emotional strength, nearly every line would pertain to his plight and relationship with Frodo.