Belong
Editors
The Wilderness Within: Exploring 'Belong' by Editors
Editors' song 'Belong' delves into the complexities of love and identity, using vivid imagery and metaphors to paint a picture of a relationship that serves as a sanctuary amidst chaos. The opening lines, 'In this room, a wilderness,' set the stage for a contrast between the external world's chaos and the internal peace found within a relationship. The 'calm in that dress' symbolizes a partner who brings tranquility and stability, acting as a refuge from the 'circling birds' and 'spits of rain' that represent life's challenges and uncertainties.
The recurring theme of 'wilderness' throughout the song suggests an untamed, raw emotional landscape both outside and within the individuals. The lyrics 'Our skin's alive, I wear your soul' highlight the deep, almost symbiotic connection between the lovers, emphasizing a sense of belonging and mutual dependence. This connection is further reinforced by the repeated refrain, 'Never belong to anyone else but me,' which underscores a possessive yet profound bond, suggesting exclusivity and a deep-seated need for each other.
The song also touches on themes of memory and time, as seen in the lines 'Welcome home, how long's it been? I know that face from bad dream.' This suggests a reunion after a period of separation, where the familiarity of the partner's face brings comfort despite past hardships. The falling picture symbolizes the fragility of life and memories, yet the relationship remains a constant, a 'sheltered hole' amidst the wilderness. The repeated phrase 'A wilderness is in me' towards the end of the song reflects the internal struggles and complexities each person carries, yet finds solace in the shared connection.