Sacrifice (feat. ten56.)

Ashen's song 'Sacrifice (feat. ten56.)' delves deep into the tumultuous inner world of someone grappling with their mental health. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels cursed from birth, haunted by their own thoughts and emotions. The opening lines, 'I'm tryna shut off my head / Want a life? Here’s a nightmare!' set the tone for the rest of the song, highlighting the protagonist's desire to escape their own mind and the constant torment they endure. The reference to a 'hex from the moment I was born' suggests a feeling of being doomed or cursed, a sentiment that permeates the entire song.

The recurring theme of 'demons inside' serves as a powerful metaphor for the protagonist's mental struggles. These demons are described as 'children of mine,' indicating a deep, personal connection to these inner battles. The protagonist's contemplation of 'sacrifice' reflects their desperation and the extreme measures they consider to find relief. The lines 'So lost I can't find myself / Twenty plus years in this living hell' further emphasize the long-term nature of their suffering and the profound impact it has had on their sense of self.

The song also touches on themes of self-medication and the search for escape, as seen in the lines 'Got me self-medicating! / I really fucking hate me.' The protagonist's struggle with their identity and the feeling of being broken from the start is a poignant reflection of the challenges faced by many dealing with mental health issues. The imagery of reaching for the rope or the gun underscores the severity of their distress and the constant battle to stay alive. Despite the darkness, there is a glimmer of resilience in the line 'I'm not ready to die,' suggesting a flicker of hope amidst the chaos.

'Sacrifice' is a raw and unfiltered exploration of the human psyche, capturing the pain, confusion, and desperation that can accompany mental health struggles. The collaboration with ten56. adds an additional layer of intensity to the song, making it a powerful anthem for those who have faced similar battles.