Echelon

Thirty Seconds to Mars' song 'Echelon' delves into themes of self-discovery, existential questioning, and the struggle to find meaning in a chaotic world. The lyrics open with vivid imagery of 'red red changes in the sky' and 'separation in the borderline,' suggesting a world in flux and the boundaries that divide us. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of internal conflict and the fear of confronting one's true thoughts and feelings. The line 'be afraid, afraid to speak your mind' encapsulates the hesitation many feel when facing their inner truths.

The recurring phrase 'It took a moment before I lost myself in here' speaks to the fragility of identity and the ease with which one can become disoriented in the search for self. The repetition of 'again and again and again I see your face in everything' suggests an obsessive fixation, possibly on a person or an idea, that haunts the narrator. This fixation could symbolize the struggle to find clarity and purpose amidst confusion and doubt.

The term 'echelon' itself is intriguing, often associated with levels of command or rank, hinting at societal structures and the pressures they impose. The lyrics question this 'fascination with the echelon' and the 'constant questions' that arise, pointing to a broader critique of societal expectations and the search for individual meaning within these constraints. The song's climax, 'To find ourselves lost here within we need reasons why,' underscores the human need for understanding and connection, even as we navigate the 'great divide' that separates us. Ultimately, 'Echelon' is a powerful reflection on the journey of self-discovery and the existential challenges that come with it.