Ashes

Embrace's song 'Ashes' is a powerful anthem of resilience and rebirth. The lyrics convey a journey of overcoming adversity and rising above the challenges that life throws at us. The opening lines, 'I've waited and given the chance again / I'd do it all the same but either way,' suggest a sense of acceptance and determination. The protagonist acknowledges past mistakes but is ready to face them head-on, indicating a willingness to learn and grow from experiences.

The recurring theme of rising from the ashes is a metaphor for transformation and renewal. The lines 'Now watch me rise up and leave / All the ashes you made out of me' highlight the protagonist's strength and ability to rebuild themselves after being broken down. The ashes symbolize the remnants of past struggles and failures, which the protagonist is determined to leave behind. This imagery evokes the mythological Phoenix, a bird that rises from its own ashes, symbolizing rebirth and immortality.

The song also touches on themes of self-discovery and empowerment. The protagonist reflects on their journey, acknowledging the times they felt out of place or lost, as seen in the lines 'Out of place like a gem on a coal face / Lost on the right way, it's all the same.' Despite these feelings, they find the courage to start anew and rise above their circumstances. The repeated phrase 'life goes on' serves as a reminder that time heals and that moving forward is essential. Embrace's 'Ashes' ultimately delivers a message of hope and perseverance, encouraging listeners to embrace their struggles and emerge stronger on the other side.