The song “Chasing Shadows” by Alex Warren reflects the theme of yearning for someone who is no longer present in the narrator’s life. It conveys a sense of longing and nostalgia for a person and a place that has been lost.

In the verses, the narrator expresses feeling homesick, not for a physical location, but for a sense of belonging and comfort that no longer exists. They mention someone they are still learning to miss, suggesting that this person has left their life recently. The reference to home video tapes symbolizes memories of happier times that the narrator holds onto.

The pre-chorus portrays the passage of time and the absence of the person being mourned. The sun rising and setting, casting longer shadows, reflects the narrator’s increasing realization that this person is no longer around. Despite their absence, the narrator still hopes to make them proud, suggesting a desire for their approval and acknowledgement.

The chorus captures the core sentiment of the song, depicting the narrator’s relentless pursuit of memories and traces of the person they have lost. They describe running after something, trying to catch the ghost of this person, while holding onto tangible reminders like pictures and the scent of their clothes. However, they acknowledge the futility of their efforts in reaching this person, understanding that they are gone. Despite this, they admit that they cannot let go and continue chasing the shadows of their presence.

In the second verse, the narrator emphasizes the significance of conversations and the sound of the person’s voice that they previously avoided. They express missing these aspects of the person who has been replaced by a tattoo of their name, suggesting a permanent but inadequate substitute for their presence.

The outro further emphasizes the absence and finality of the person’s departure. The narrator mentions saying goodbye prematurely and being left with only a silhouette, or an outline, of the person who once was. This shadow, representing their essence, is all that remains.

Overall, “Chasing Shadows” explores the complex emotions of longing and grief, as the narrator grapples with the loss of someone who has left an indelible mark on their life. They continue to chase shadows and hold onto remnants of this person, unable to fully let go.