fight or flight
Henry Moodie
The Dilemma of Commitment in 'fight or flight'
Henry Moodie's song 'fight or flight' delves into the emotional turmoil of a young person grappling with the uncertainties of love and commitment. The lyrics recount the artist's experience of falling in love, the naivety of youth, and the eventual heartbreak that follows when trust is broken by 'guilty eyes and reckless lies.' The song's title, 'fight or flight,' is a metaphor for the decision one must make in a relationship when faced with challenges: to stay and fight for the love or to flee from the difficulties.
The chorus poses poignant questions about the stability and resilience of the relationship. Moodie wonders if his partner would remain loving and accepting of his vulnerabilities ('all of my scars') when faced with adversity, or if they would abandon him ('leave me alone in the dark'). The repetition of 'I don't wanna fall' emphasizes his fear of emotional descent and the pain of unreciprocated love. The song captures the essence of a person seeking reassurance and a promise of unwavering support from their partner.
The narrative progresses from the initial heartbreak in November to a reflective state in September, where the artist has regained a sense of self after the breakup ('I lost a piece of who I was'). The lyrics suggest a readiness to recommit, but only if the partner is willing to be present consistently ('through Sun and rain'). The song ultimately expresses the desire for a love that is steadfast and true, highlighting the importance of commitment and the fear of uncertainty in relationships.