Castle

Halsey's song "Castle" is a powerful anthem of defiance and self-assertion. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration with the expectations and pressures of fame, as well as a desire to break free from the constraints imposed by society. The repeated line "I'm headed straight for the castle" suggests a determined march towards a goal or position of power, symbolized by the castle. The castle could represent the music industry, a place of authority, or a personal aspiration that Halsey is striving to achieve despite the obstacles.

The reference to an "old man sitting on the throne" who advises her to be less confrontational and to "keep my pretty mouth shut" can be interpreted as the voice of the patriarchal establishment. It reflects the societal expectation for women, especially those in the public eye, to be compliant and to not challenge the status quo. Halsey's response to this is to continue her pursuit unabated, indicating her refusal to be silenced or to conform to these antiquated norms.

The song also touches on the emotional toll of living in the spotlight, with lines like "sick of all these people talking, sick of all this noise" and "already choking on my pride, so there's no use crying about it." Halsey expresses the vulnerability and the strength it takes to endure public scrutiny and criticism. The repeated phrase "there's no use crying about it" serves as a mantra of resilience, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.