This Is

Aslan's song 'This Is' delves deep into the human condition, exploring themes of struggle, disillusionment, and the search for meaning. The lyrics paint vivid pictures of various individuals, each grappling with their own hardships. From the 'tired man' and the 'teenage mother' to the 'punished pilgrim,' the song captures a spectrum of human experiences, all marked by a sense of weariness and longing. The 'blood crazed tiger' and the 'maddening crowd' evoke a chaotic world where individuals are often left feeling isolated and misunderstood.

The recurring imagery of eyes and faces throughout the song serves as a powerful metaphor for the inner lives of these characters. Eyes, often described as windows to the soul, reveal the depth of their suffering and the weight of their experiences. The 'eyes of the blood crazed tiger' and the 'eyes of the punished pilgrim' suggest a shared sense of desperation and a search for truth in a world filled with lies and broken promises. The song's refrain, 'Everybody hits you with this feeling / Nobody seems to understand,' underscores the universal nature of these struggles, highlighting a collective sense of alienation.

In the final verses, the song shifts to a more introspective tone, focusing on the 'dreams of a sleeping father' and the 'tears of a fallen idol.' These lines suggest a longing for redemption and a desire to make sense of past mistakes. The repeated phrase 'you see no surprise' implies a resignation to the harsh realities of life, yet there is also a glimmer of hope in the realization that comes with self-awareness. Aslan's poignant lyrics and evocative imagery invite listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the shared human experience of searching for meaning amidst life's challenges.