Concrete Angel

Christina Novelli's 'Concrete Angel' is a poignant exploration of emotional barriers and the struggle to maintain a connection with someone who is shutting themselves off from the world. The song opens with a plea for intimacy and understanding, as the narrator expresses a desire to 'breathe you in' and 'stay around.' This sets the stage for a narrative about the pain of watching someone you care about retreat into themselves, building 'walls' that make it increasingly difficult to reach them.

The metaphor of the 'concrete angel' is central to the song's theme. It represents a person who has become emotionally hardened, constructing 'brick by brick towers so tall' that they become unreachable. The narrator laments this transformation, noting that they once knew the person well but now find them unrecognizable. The repeated line 'until the concrete angel falls' suggests a hope that these barriers will eventually crumble, allowing for a return to genuine connection and understanding.

The song also delves into the complexities of trust and self-perception. The narrator acknowledges that the other person's lack of self-trust leads to a lack of trust in others, creating a vicious cycle of isolation and misunderstanding. This emotional distance is further exacerbated by the other person's refusal to communicate, leaving the narrator feeling frustrated and helpless. The closing lines, 'I'm over getting over you,' indicate a sense of resignation and acceptance, as the narrator comes to terms with the fact that they cannot change the other person's behavior.

'Concrete Angel' is a powerful reflection on the challenges of maintaining relationships in the face of emotional walls. It speaks to the universal experience of wanting to help someone who is struggling but feeling powerless to do so. Through its evocative lyrics and haunting melody, the song captures the pain and hope that come with loving someone who is lost within themselves.