Palace
Hayley Kiyoko
A Palace of Memories: Hayley Kiyoko's 'Palace'
Hayley Kiyoko's song 'Palace' is a poignant exploration of memory, loss, and the way we preserve our most cherished moments and people in our minds. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a mental sanctuary where the artist keeps the memory of a loved one alive. The 'palace covered in gold' symbolizes the precious and untarnished nature of these memories, suggesting that even though the person is no longer physically present, their essence remains beautifully intact in the artist's thoughts.
The recurring imagery of 'a bed of roses' and 'kissing your silhouette' evokes a sense of romantic nostalgia. These lines suggest that the artist finds solace and comfort in these memories, even though they are tinged with a sense of longing and melancholy. The use of colors like 'purple, blue, and green' adds a layer of emotional depth, symbolizing the various shades of feelings associated with these memories, from tranquility to sadness to hope.
The song also touches on the theme of freedom, both for the artist and the person they are remembering. Lines like 'I need you to be free' indicate a desire to let go, to allow the memory to exist without the weight of sorrow. The final verses, 'Dance in your color / Reflecting in your light / You're my horizon / You'll always paint my sky,' encapsulate the enduring impact of this person on the artist's life. Even in their absence, they continue to inspire and bring beauty to the artist's world, much like a horizon that always remains in view, no matter how far one travels.