Lyrics
Some nights, I'm a tourist to my kind
Expresses the feeling of being an outsider or unfamiliar within one's own cultural group on certain occasions.
Landscape caught within a frame, a glimpse of another side
Describes a moment captured like a picture, providing a glimpse of a different aspect or perspective.
Call you, call you in my best Khmerican
Attempts to connect with one's cultural identity by using a blend of "Khmer" (Cambodian) and "American."
Painter, pick up your round brush and fill the details in
Encourages someone skilled, possibly an artist, to add depth and intricacy to the portrayal of life.
Be my eyes
Requests assistance in perceiving and understanding the world, symbolizing a need for guidance or perspective.
Cracked paint, a place enchanted
Describes a place with flaws or imperfections, yet possesses a captivating and magical quality.
The colors of your life
Refers to the diverse and vibrant experiences that constitute a person's existence.
Sunsets playing on the temple
Depicts a scenic view of sunsets illuminating a temple, possibly representing cultural richness and history.
And you, who survived
Acknowledges the strength of those who have endured challenges and survived difficult circumstances.
Be my eyes
Reiterates the request for guidance and perception from someone experienced or wise.
Some kids move because their parents take new jobs
Highlights different reasons for relocation, both mundane (new jobs) and profound (war-related).
Some kids move ʼcause of Napalm
Specifically mentions the impact of Napalm, a powerful symbol of the Vietnam War's destructive consequences.
Cracked paint, a place enchanted
Repeats the description of a flawed yet enchanting place, emphasizing its complex beauty.
The colors of your life
Reiterates the richness and diversity of life experiences, portrayed through colors.
Siem Reap bathed in gold and umber and
Names a location, Siem Reap, using vivid colors like gold and umber, possibly reflecting memories or nostalgia.
Palm trees climb so high
Depicts the natural beauty of palm trees, reaching great heights and symbolizing resilience.
Sunsets playing on the temple
Recalls sunsets on a temple, connecting the past with present survival and strength.
And you, you who survived
Directly addresses someone who has overcome hardships, reaffirming the need for their guidance.
Be my eyes, father, be my eyes
Calls upon the father to serve as the eyes, seeking insight and understanding.
I can play the old music
Expresses the ability to engage in familiar cultural activities, like playing old music.
We can dance to all the old songs
Suggests the possibility of shared experiences through dancing to familiar songs.
But I'll never walk with you through it
Acknowledges the inability to fully experience certain aspects of life together, indicating a sense of loss or separation.
What a cruel, cruel task to belong
Reflects on the challenging nature of belonging and the emotional difficulty associated with certain tasks or relationships.
Yay said, The moon ain't sitting right
Introduces the concept of the moon not sitting right, possibly symbolizing an obstacle or imbalance.
When you wanted to marry mom
Recalls a past desire to marry, highlighting unfulfilled aspirations and the impact on family dynamics.
Be my eyes, father, oh be my eyes
Reiterates the plea for the father to be the eyes, underscoring the ongoing need for guidance and understanding.
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