Born and Raised

Alexisonfire's 'Born and Raised' delves into the profound existential questions that haunt the human experience. The song opens with the imagery of blossoms dying in the light of a new culture, suggesting a loss of innocence or purity as society evolves. This sets the stage for a journey of self-discovery and the search for meaning in a world that often feels indifferent. The lyrics speak to the struggle of finding belief in something intangible, as countless lessons lie in fever dreams, and a million voices question the purpose of it all.

The recurring theme of lost direction underscores the existential crisis at the heart of the song. The narrator expresses a longing for belief, a desire to find something to hold onto amidst the chaos. The call to 'escape' and 'retreat' to the bliss of creation suggests a yearning to return to a simpler, more authentic state of being. This is further emphasized by the metaphor of a bird searching for warmth, symbolizing the human heart's quest for comfort and understanding in a cold, indifferent world.

The song also explores the duality of human nature and the constant tension between faith and doubt. The imagery of two hands coming together to pray and two poles of a compass guided by a field highlights the struggle to find direction and purpose. The mention of a nihilist dreaming of God's face suggests that even disbelief requires a leap of faith, pointing to the inherent uncertainty in all human endeavors. Ultimately, 'Born and Raised' is a poignant reflection on the human condition, capturing the perpetual search for meaning and the hope that drives us forward despite the unknown.