Unknown Soldier

Breaking Benjamin's song 'Unknown Soldier' delves deep into the psyche of someone grappling with internal turmoil and existential dread. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels 'dead inside' and is 'falling to pieces,' suggesting a profound sense of disconnection and despair. The use of military imagery, such as 'border line' and 'enemy's on the way,' serves as a metaphor for the internal battles the protagonist faces. This struggle is not just against external forces but also against their own mental and emotional state.

The chorus, 'Show me what it's like to dream in black and white, so I can leave this world tonight,' reflects a longing for simplicity and escape from the complexities and pains of life. Dreaming in black and white symbolizes a desire for clarity and an end to the emotional chaos. The repeated plea to 'leave this world tonight' underscores a yearning for release, possibly hinting at thoughts of suicide or a deep desire to escape from the overwhelming pain.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of holding on and fighting, despite the overwhelming odds. Lines like 'Full of fear, ever clear, I'll be here, fighting forever' and 'Holding on too tight, breathe the breath of life' suggest a relentless struggle to survive and find meaning. The mention of 'climbing to heaven' indicates a search for redemption or peace, even as the protagonist acknowledges the difficulty of turning back time and the inevitability of being 'left behind.' The song encapsulates the essence of an 'unknown soldier'—a person fighting an unseen war within themselves, seeking solace and understanding in a world that often feels indifferent to their pain.