Gnaw

Alex G's song 'Gnaw' delves into the raw and often concealed emotions of pain, fear, and identity. The opening lines paint a vivid picture of a vulnerable moment, with someone crying loudly in a schoolyard, a place typically associated with innocence and childhood. This juxtaposition of a safe space with intense emotional distress sets the tone for the song, highlighting the contrast between external appearances and internal struggles. The mention of feeling good while witnessing someone else's pain introduces a complex emotional landscape, suggesting a mix of empathy and perhaps a darker sense of satisfaction or relief.

The lyrics take a darker turn with the reference to '666' carved into a tree, a symbol often associated with the devil or evil. This imagery suggests a confrontation with inner demons or a sense of being marked by something sinister. The line 'I know every time I look in his eyes he sees me too' implies a mutual recognition of this darkness, hinting at a deeper connection or understanding between the narrator and the source of their fear or pain. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for self-awareness and the acknowledgment of one's own flaws and fears.

The chorus offers a moment of solace, with the narrator promising to keep secrets and provide comfort. However, the repeated insistence that 'I am not your brother' and 'I am not your lover' underscores a sense of detachment and boundaries. This suggests that while the narrator is willing to offer support, they are also maintaining a distance, perhaps to protect themselves or to avoid deeper emotional entanglement. The final line, 'And there is nothing wrong,' can be seen as a reassurance, but it also carries an undertone of denial or resignation, reflecting the complex and often contradictory nature of human emotions.