Album: The Glass Messenger (2009)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Jack's Mannequin explained on their website that "within the context of the song, the word 'Swim' is used as a metaphor for 'hope, perseverance, courage, determination and strength."'

Comments: 2

  • Jim from Ocean Grove, NjAndrew McMahon WAS Jack's Mannequin. He played keyboards and wrote all their songs. In 2005, Andrew was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and he received stem cell transplant from his sister Katie. This album was dedicated to her.
    These guys were from Southern California, so the SWIM metaphor came naturally. He is saying that it would be easy to give up and drown/die. But, what keeps him fighting to live is all the things (music) and people (lovers, family, friends) he loves. Sometimes it might seem like you are getting nowhere and the waves/problems are overwhelming, but just keep your head above and swim.
  • Allison from Albany, Nyi love this song. it helps me when i don't have any hope left.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Colin Hay

Colin HaySongwriter Interviews

Established as a redoubtable singer-songwriter, the Men At Work frontman explains how religion, sobriety and Jack Nicholson play into his songwriting.

Eric Clapton

Eric ClaptonFact or Fiction

Did Eric Clapton really write "Cocaine" while on cocaine? This question and more in the Clapton edition of Fact or Fiction.

Adam Young of Owl City

Adam Young of Owl CitySongwriter Interviews

Is Owl City on a quest for another hit like "Fireflies?" Adam answers that question and explains the influences behind many others.

Rick Springfield

Rick SpringfieldSongwriter Interviews

Rick has a surprising dark side, a strong feminine side and, in a certain TV show, a naked backside. But he still hasn't found Jessie's Girl.

Queen

QueenFact or Fiction

Scaramouch, a hoople and a superhero soundtrack - see if you can spot the real Queen stories.

Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes

Chris Robinson of The Black CrowesSongwriter Interviews

"Great songwriters don't necessarily have hit songs," says Chris. He's written a bunch, but his fans are more interested in the intricate jams.