Ultraviolet

Freya Ridings' song 'Ultraviolet' is a poetic exploration of vulnerability and intimacy. The lyrics suggest a narrative of someone who has kept their innermost thoughts and feelings hidden, likened to 'a secret on every page.' However, the presence of another person, described metaphorically as 'ultraviolet,' reveals what was once concealed. This person has the ability to see through the facade that the narrator has maintained, exposing the raw and genuine self beneath.

The use of 'ultraviolet' as a central metaphor is particularly evocative. Ultraviolet light is not visible to the naked eye, yet it has the power to reveal what is otherwise unseen, such as hidden messages written in lemon juice—a classic invisible ink. This metaphor extends to the emotional realm, where the other person's perception penetrates the narrator's defenses, uncovering truths that are not apparent to others. The imagery of a 'dragon's breath' and 'fire against my chest' conveys the intensity of this exposure, suggesting both the fear and the warmth that come with being truly seen.

Freya Ridings delivers these themes with a sense of acceptance and inevitability. The repeated lines 'I can't hide it' and 'No, I can't fight it' reflect a surrender to this deep connection. The song celebrates the beauty of being understood on a profound level, where even the darkest truths are accepted. It's a testament to the transformative power of emotional transparency and the courage it takes to let someone in so completely.