Brave (ft. Sarah Howells)

In 'Brave,' First State and Sarah Howells delve into the complexities of courage, self-doubt, and the struggle for authenticity. The song opens with a vivid image of a heart giving way to 'heathen,' suggesting a loss of innocence or faith. The lyrics 'All of my bones are cold & anchored to the ground' evoke a sense of being weighed down by life's challenges. The protagonist warms their hands on the 'spotlight,' indicating a fleeting comfort found in moments of recognition or success, but this is juxtaposed with 'losing religion in your new pet sound,' hinting at disillusionment with superficial or trendy beliefs. The repeated line 'And we all fall down' serves as a reminder of our shared vulnerability and the inevitability of failure.

The chorus, with its repeated invocation of 'Brave,' acts as both a plea and a declaration. The protagonist admires someone whose 'movements say exactly what you're thinking,' a person who embodies the courage and authenticity they yearn for. The act of 'peeling the labels off my gods & inspiration' signifies a quest for genuine understanding, free from preconceived notions. The 'afterglow' mentioned multiple times suggests a period of reflection and clarity that follows moments of revelation or change.

The refrain 'If I was brave, I'd never get this wrong' encapsulates the central theme of the song. It speaks to the fear of making mistakes and the longing for the courage to act without hesitation. The line 'You're in my way, and time is getting on' adds a sense of urgency, highlighting the internal and external obstacles that hinder the protagonist's quest for bravery. Ultimately, 'Brave' is a poignant exploration of the human condition, capturing the tension between aspiration and reality, and the universal desire for courage in the face of life's uncertainties.