Dream House

Deafheaven's 'Dream House' is a poignant exploration of longing, existential despair, and the search for solace. The song opens with the line 'Hindered by sober restlessness,' immediately setting a tone of unease and discomfort. This phrase suggests a state of being trapped in one's own mind, unable to find peace even in sobriety. The 'amber crutch' likely refers to alcohol, a common escape for those grappling with inner turmoil. The repetition of 'The theme in my aching prose' underscores the persistent nature of this emotional pain, as if it is a recurring motif in the narrator's life.

The imagery of 'Fantasizing the sight of Manhattan' evokes a sense of yearning for something distant and perhaps unattainable. Manhattan, often seen as a symbol of dreams and aspirations, represents a place where the narrator's desires might be fulfilled. However, this fantasy is tinged with bitterness, as indicated by the 'pour of a bitter red being' that 'escapes a thin frame.' This could symbolize the draining of life and vitality, a stark contrast to the vibrant dreams of Manhattan.

The song's climax, with the repeated lines 'I'm dying / Is it blissful? / It's like a dream / I want to dream,' captures the essence of the narrator's struggle. The juxtaposition of death and dreaming suggests a desire to escape reality, to find peace in an eternal dream. The repeated plea 'I want to dream with you' adds a layer of intimacy, hinting at a longing for connection even in the face of despair. Deafheaven's blend of black metal and shoegaze creates a soundscape that mirrors the lyrical themes, enveloping the listener in a hauntingly beautiful experience.