Ariel

Anathema's song 'Ariel' delves into the profound depths of love and longing, capturing the essence of a relationship that transcends the ordinary. The recurring imagery of darkness and light serves as a powerful metaphor for the emotional landscape the narrator navigates. Finding someone 'in the dark' suggests a discovery of love in a place of uncertainty or despair, highlighting the transformative power of this connection. The plea 'Don't leave me here' underscores a fear of abandonment, a common human anxiety when faced with the vulnerability of deep affection.

The chorus, 'Staring at the sun, a love so strong it hurts,' encapsulates the intensity of the narrator's feelings. Staring at the sun is a metaphor for confronting something overwhelmingly powerful and potentially blinding, much like an all-consuming love. This line suggests that the love experienced is both beautiful and painful, a duality that many can relate to. The repetition of this line emphasizes the inescapable nature of these emotions, as if the narrator is caught in a loop of longing and admiration.

The song also touches on the theme of dreams and distance, with the narrator dreaming of their beloved and hearing their voice 'from afar.' This could symbolize a love that is not physically present but is deeply felt and spiritually significant. The lines 'Look into your eyes, see my life defined' and 'See your heart in mine' speak to the profound connection and mutual understanding between the two individuals. This connection is so strong that it defines the narrator's existence, suggesting a love that is both grounding and elevating.