Lent

Autoheart's song 'Lent' delves into the emotional turmoil and internal conflict experienced during the end of a toxic relationship. The lyrics are a raw and candid exploration of the protagonist's struggle to decide whether to stay or leave, reflecting a deep sense of dissatisfaction and the desire for freedom. The repeated questioning of 'Should I stay? Should I go?' highlights the indecision and the emotional weight of the situation, while the metaphor of running far away to the point of not seeing the universe underscores the intensity of the need to escape.

The song uses the concept of Lent, a period of giving up certain luxuries, as a metaphor for the protagonist's attempt to rid themselves of the negative influences in their life, including the toxic relationship. The lines 'Give it up, give it up, give it up for lent' and 'Take a break, pack it in, take it out to the bin' suggest a cleansing process, a desire to remove anything that compromises their well-being. The comparison of the partner to a 'fat joint' that the protagonist cannot remember clearly indicates the hazy, detrimental impact the relationship has had on their life.

The lyrics also touch on the social repercussions of the toxic relationship, with visitors being visibly disturbed and not wanting to stay around the couple. This external validation of the unhealthy nature of the relationship adds to the protagonist's resolve to end it. The repeated refrain of 'I don't wanna, I don't wanna' emphasizes the protagonist's growing resistance and determination to break free. The song concludes with a powerful declaration of the desire for freedom and the realization that the relationship is no longer worth the emotional cost, encapsulated in the lines 'I wanna be free, I want to be free.'