It kind of seems like an argument within one's self about whether to jump in or not. It talks of the good things across the water and how she is missing out, but "Alas, I cannot swim" implies an inability to cope; she will drown before she gets there.
Throughout the song she seems to be convincing herself that she doesn't need false happiness (gold etc.) because she can earn her own happiness. The golden gun could imply that once you've given in to the temptation it is difficult/impossible to go back, people will try to keep you there.
I agree with 'roo92123' it could apply to the music industry and selling out, or it could simply mean that you shouldn't give in to other people, as you will never be able to please them all anyway/there will always be something more they want from you ("Why I should please those that will never be pleased?") Be happy with being yourself, if you work hard you will reap the rewards.
It kind of seems like an argument within one's self about whether to jump in or not. It talks of the good things across the water and how she is missing out, but "Alas, I cannot swim" implies an inability to cope; she will drown before she gets there.
Throughout the song she seems to be convincing herself that she doesn't need false happiness (gold etc.) because she can earn her own happiness. The golden gun could imply that once you've given in to the temptation it is difficult/impossible to go back, people will try to keep you there.
I agree with 'roo92123' it could apply to the music industry and selling out, or it could simply mean that you shouldn't give in to other people, as you will never be able to please them all anyway/there will always be something more they want from you ("Why I should please those that will never be pleased?") Be happy with being yourself, if you work hard you will reap the rewards.
*I meant that she begins by thinking she is missing out but, by the end of the song, she has realised that she isn't missing out at all.
*I meant that she begins by thinking she is missing out but, by the end of the song, she has realised that she isn't missing out at all.