Hollow

In 'Hollow,' Hands Like Houses delves into the profound sense of emptiness and despair that can consume a person. The repeated refrain, 'I'm so hollow,' sets the tone for the entire song, emphasizing a deep-seated feeling of void and desolation. This phrase captures the essence of the song, portraying a state of emotional numbness and detachment from the world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with their inner demons, feeling lost and disconnected from reality.

The imagery in the song is striking and evocative. Lines like 'We're crawling on a tightrope, feel the way the cold chokes' and 'Heavens on the edge of my wrist' suggest a precarious balance between life and death, hope and despair. The mention of 'blood stains the carpet' and 'sleeping inside our coffin' further intensifies the sense of morbidity and hopelessness. These metaphors highlight the struggle of holding on while feeling the inevitable pull towards the end, symbolizing a battle with mental health issues or existential dread.

The song also touches on themes of time and inevitability. The lyrics 'It's too late, it's too late, it's too late to stay, it's too late to change' reflect a sense of resignation and acceptance of one's fate. The recurring question 'What if I wait?' suggests a longing for change or redemption, but the overwhelming sense of hollowness makes it seem unattainable. The use of 'white lights' and 'an angel points at me with her gun' adds a surreal, almost otherworldly quality to the song, hinting at a confrontation with mortality and the afterlife.

'Hollow' by Hands Like Houses is a haunting exploration of inner turmoil and the struggle to find meaning in the face of overwhelming emptiness. The band's post-hardcore style, characterized by powerful vocals and intense instrumentals, amplifies the emotional weight of the lyrics, making it a poignant and resonant piece for anyone who has ever felt lost or hollow inside.