Collapse

After the Burial's song 'Collapse' delves into the emotional turmoil and existential dread that arise from repeated mistakes and the inability to break free from destructive patterns. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person trapped in a cycle of errors, likening their struggles to being caught in a frozen, unyielding landscape. The imagery of 'pinions clipped and forgotten' suggests a loss of freedom and potential, while the 'frozen lake' metaphorically represents a cold, unfeeling environment that traps the individual in a perpetual winter of despair.

The recurring theme of 'replicated errors' highlights the cyclical nature of the protagonist's suffering. The glaciers of mistakes symbolize the massive, seemingly insurmountable obstacles that these errors create. As the seasons change and summers melt the ice, the protagonist finds themselves drowning in the flood, a metaphor for being overwhelmed by the consequences of their actions. This imagery underscores the idea that even when conditions seem to improve, the weight of past mistakes can still pull one under.

The song also touches on the internal conflict and paralysis that come with these struggles. The 'paralyzed nights' and 'searing waves' evoke a sense of being stuck and unable to move forward, while the 'hollow shells' and 'dread echoes' suggest a deep, resonating emptiness. The repetition of 'reverberate in infinity' emphasizes the endless nature of this torment, creating a powerful sense of hopelessness and futility. Through its intense and evocative lyrics, 'Collapse' captures the profound emotional impact of being trapped in a cycle of repeated mistakes and the struggle to find a way out.