Binary Star

Hiroyuki Sawano's 'Binary Star' is a profound exploration of duality and the inevitable conflicts that arise from it. The song uses the metaphor of a binary star system, where two stars orbit each other, to illustrate the complex relationships between individuals and groups. The opening lines, 'An adorable star / We can see from afar / But a truth it belies / All who enters her dies,' set the stage for a narrative that delves into the hidden dangers and inevitable clashes that come with close relationships. The imagery of stars and celestial bodies serves as a powerful metaphor for human connections, suggesting that while they may appear beautiful and harmonious from a distance, they can be destructive up close.

The recurring line, 'You know blood is thicker than water / But you just want everyone to get along,' highlights the tension between familial loyalty and the desire for broader harmony. This line encapsulates the struggle many face in trying to reconcile personal relationships with the larger social fabric. The song's chorus, 'For the candles in the darkness / Burning up the sorrow / There's no end to sadness / We didn't learn,' speaks to the enduring nature of human sorrow and the cyclical patterns of conflict and reconciliation. The candles symbolize hope and resilience, yet their burning also signifies the consumption of sorrow, suggesting that pain and hope are intertwined.

The concept of 'binary' is further explored in the lines, 'We're a binary heart / Tear each other apart / Growing from the same stem / They are us, we are them.' This suggests that duality is inherent in our nature, and conflict is an inevitable part of our existence. The song's bridge, 'A centrifugal force / Pushing us far away / That's our eternity,' reinforces the idea that despite our efforts to come together, forces beyond our control often push us apart. The use of scientific terms like 'centrifugal force' and 'gravity' adds a layer of inevitability to these separations, framing them as natural laws rather than personal failings.

'Binary Star' is a poignant reflection on the complexities of human relationships, the perpetual dance of conflict and reconciliation, and the inescapable forces that shape our interactions. Sawano's use of celestial imagery and scientific metaphors elevates the song, making it a compelling commentary on the human condition.