Running Alone
Angra
The Solitary Struggle: A Journey Through Angra's 'Running Alone'
Angra's song 'Running Alone' delves into themes of isolation, struggle, and the quest for meaning in a chaotic world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who feels abandoned and is grappling with the aftermath of conflict and division. The opening lines reference a time when bravery and freedom were paramount, but now, the 'bells of hope' ring amidst a backdrop of despair, symbolized by 'angels crying again.' This sets the tone for a narrative steeped in loss and the search for redemption.
The song employs powerful metaphors, such as the 'goddess of wind' spreading fire and the storm that incites anger and fear. These elements represent the uncontrollable forces that disrupt lives and create rifts between people, turning 'old friends like enemies.' The repeated plea, 'Answer me, what happened to your life?' underscores a deep sense of confusion and a yearning for understanding in the face of these upheavals. The protagonist's journey is marked by physical and emotional scars, as evidenced by the lines 'Scars on my face, weary hands from digging dirt,' highlighting the toll of their solitary struggle.
As the song progresses, the sense of isolation intensifies. The protagonist questions their path, asking, 'Am I running? Where am I?' This reflects a profound existential crisis, where the future seems uncertain, and the past is a distant memory. The imagery of a 'solitary world' and being the 'sole survivor' amplifies the feeling of being alone in a vast, indifferent universe. Despite the bleakness, the recurring motif of 'bells of hope' suggests a glimmer of optimism, hinting that even in the darkest times, there is a possibility for renewal and salvation.