To Be Alone

Hozier's song 'To Be Alone' delves into the complex emotions of seeking solace and intimacy in a world that often feels overwhelming and hostile. The opening lines set a stark scene, describing a discomfort with crowds and the pervasive influence of 'rape culture,' which is depicted as crude and dehumanizing. This societal backdrop creates a sense of alienation for the narrator, who finds refuge only in the intimate moments shared with a loved one. The act of 'killing the lights and kissing my eyes' symbolizes a temporary escape from the harsh realities of the outside world, allowing the narrator to feel human and connected, if only for a fleeting moment.

The song also explores the paradoxical nature of this intimacy. While the narrator finds comfort in these moments, there is an underlying tension and pain. The lines 'you don't know what hell you put me through' and 'to have someone kiss the skin that crawls from you' suggest a deep-seated discomfort and self-loathing. The metaphor of 'the God that heroin prays to' evokes a sense of addiction and dependency, highlighting the complex and often destructive nature of their relationship. Despite the pain, the narrator is drawn to these moments of closeness, finding a bittersweet solace in them.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of escape and the desire for a better life. The narrator dreams of running away with their loved one, away from the damaging influences of their current environment. This longing for escape is tempered by a sense of resignation, as the narrator acknowledges the difficulty of breaking free from their circumstances. The repeated refrain 'it feels good, girl, it feels good' underscores the temporary relief found in these moments of intimacy, even as the underlying issues remain unresolved. Hozier's 'To Be Alone' is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love, intimacy, and the search for solace in a troubled world.