Shades
Alexandra Savior
Navigating the Fog: The Elusive Journey in 'Shades' by Alexandra Savior
Alexandra Savior's song 'Shades' delves into the complexities of relationships and self-awareness, wrapped in a dreamy, almost surreal narrative. The lyrics paint a picture of someone leaving a lover's house, reflecting on the disjointed and confusing nature of their connection. The protagonist's struggle to write a note and the malfunctioning shower symbolize the broader difficulties in communication and the small, frustrating obstacles that can define a relationship. The wish for rain to pull up a hood suggests a desire for comfort and concealment, a way to hide from the emotional turmoil.
The recurring metaphor of looking for shades and finding them on one's face captures the theme of searching for clarity and understanding, only to realize that the answers were always within reach. This moment of realization is both humorous and poignant, highlighting the absurdity and simplicity of some of life's most perplexing moments. The 'abnormal behavior' and 'uncontrollably vapor' mentioned in the chorus suggest a sense of losing control and the ephemeral nature of emotions and relationships. The 'strange little arrangement' that must eventually cease points to the inevitable end of this confusing and possibly toxic relationship.
The song's imagery of wishing for a sunset or New Year's Day on a vacant street evokes a sense of longing for new beginnings and the passage of time. The 'long-eyed shadow' cast by the protagonist signifies introspection and the lingering impact of past actions. The misty, twisting path described towards the end of the song symbolizes the uncertain journey ahead, with only the 'curves' being familiar. This reflects the idea that while the future is unclear, the protagonist is beginning to understand the patterns and lessons from their past experiences. Alexandra Savior's haunting vocals and the ethereal production further enhance the song's introspective and melancholic mood, making 'Shades' a poignant exploration of the complexities of human connections and self-discovery.