Holding My Breath
Alien Weaponry
The Struggle Within: Alien Weaponry's 'Holding My Breath'
Alien Weaponry's song 'Holding My Breath' delves deep into the emotional and psychological turmoil experienced by someone grappling with severe mental health issues. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels judged and misunderstood by society, leading to a profound sense of isolation and despair. The opening lines, 'Before you judge me take a good hard look at yourself / You don’t know me but you’re draining me of mental health,' highlight the impact of societal judgment and the lack of understanding that exacerbates the individual's suffering.
The recurring imagery of being 'locked in a room' and 'in a black hole' symbolizes the inescapable nature of the protagonist's mental anguish. These metaphors effectively convey the feeling of being trapped in one's own mind, unable to find relief or escape. The repeated refrain, 'Opening my eyes is worse than death / That’s why I keep on holding my breath,' underscores the depth of the protagonist's despair, suggesting that facing reality is so unbearable that they would rather metaphorically 'hold their breath' to avoid it.
The song also touches on themes of guilt and self-loathing, as seen in the lines, 'The world is caving in all around me / I see myself as a vulgar monstrosity.' This self-perception as a 'vulgar monstrosity' indicates a deep-seated sense of worthlessness and shame. Alien Weaponry's raw and intense musical style amplifies the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating a powerful and haunting portrayal of mental health struggles. The repetition of key phrases throughout the song emphasizes the cyclical and relentless nature of these internal battles, making 'Holding My Breath' a poignant exploration of the human psyche under duress.