Pathetic, Ordinary

Alesana's 'Pathetic, Ordinary' delves into the torment of unrequited love and the haunting presence of a beloved figure in dreams. The song's protagonist is deeply affected by the image of a woman who appears in his dreams, dancing across landscapes bathed in golden light and autumn hues. This ethereal vision contrasts sharply with his waking reality, where her 'selfish words' and 'placid lips' leave him feeling breathless and filled with 'foolish agony.' The juxtaposition of dream and reality highlights the protagonist's inner turmoil and longing for a love that seems just out of reach.

The lyrics are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery, such as 'blood-soaked feathers' and 'wingless angel,' which convey a sense of fallen grace and brokenness. The protagonist's desperate attempts to prove himself to her and make her see his worth are met with silence, further deepening his sense of despair. The recurring theme of breathlessness and the struggle to scream for her underscores the suffocating nature of his unfulfilled desires and the emotional paralysis he experiences.

Alesana's musical style, characterized by its blend of post-hardcore and emo elements, amplifies the song's emotional intensity. The raw, confessional tone of the lyrics, combined with the band's dynamic instrumentation, creates a powerful narrative of love, loss, and longing. The protagonist's journey through dreams and reality, marked by moments of vulnerability and anguish, resonates with listeners who have experienced the pain of unattainable love. 'Pathetic, Ordinary' serves as a poignant exploration of the human condition, capturing the essence of longing and the haunting nature of unfulfilled dreams.