Sapphire
Late Night Alumni
The Melancholic Beauty of 'Sapphire'
Late Night Alumni's song 'Sapphire' delves into the complex emotions associated with loneliness and the struggle to open up to others. The recurring imagery of the color blue, which is often associated with sadness and melancholy, sets the tone for the song. The lyrics describe the sky, the sea, and the person addressed in the song as all being blue, emphasizing a sense of isolation and emotional depth. The suggestion to 'take in some oxygen and lift up your chin' serves as a gentle encouragement to the listener to breathe, look up, and be open to new experiences and connections.
The song also explores the idea of hiding one's true feelings behind a facade. The line 'Sometimes when blue lights hide your eyes you look alive' suggests that the person appears vibrant and alive under certain conditions, but this is merely a disguise. The realization that the person is 'afraid' and 'paralyzed' highlights the internal struggle between wanting to connect with others and the fear of vulnerability. This duality is further emphasized by the metaphor of 'twilight and gunfire,' which juxtaposes the serene beauty of twilight with the sudden, violent nature of gunfire, symbolizing the conflicting emotions within the person.
'Sapphire' also touches on the theme of authenticity and the desire for genuine connection. The lyrics acknowledge the person's genuine nature and the experiences that have shaped them, while also recognizing their loneliness. The repeated urging to 'open your head and let someone in' underscores the importance of allowing oneself to be vulnerable and to form meaningful relationships. The song's melancholic yet hopeful tone suggests that while loneliness is a profound and challenging emotion, there is always the possibility of connection and understanding if one is willing to take the risk.