Sunlight

Modestep's 'Sunlight' is a song that delves into the theme of escaping the past and the discomfort that comes with facing reality. The recurring line, 'The sunlight hurts my eyes,' serves as a powerful metaphor for the harsh truths and painful memories that one might prefer to avoid. Sunlight, typically a symbol of clarity and truth, is portrayed here as something that causes pain, suggesting that the truth can be overwhelming and difficult to face.

The lyrics repeatedly advise to 'put on those shades and wave to yesterday,' which implies a desire to shield oneself from the painful realities of the past. The act of putting on shades can be seen as a form of self-protection, a way to dim the intensity of the truth and make it more bearable. Waving to yesterday signifies a farewell to past experiences, indicating a need to move on and leave behind what once was.

The phrase 'don't look to the skies' further emphasizes the avoidance of confronting reality. The skies, often associated with freedom and openness, are here something to be avoided, reinforcing the idea that facing the full scope of one's reality can be daunting. The repetition of these lines throughout the song creates a hypnotic effect, mirroring the cyclical nature of trying to escape from one's past while being constantly reminded of it.

Modestep, known for their electronic rock and dubstep influences, uses a pulsating beat to underscore the urgency and intensity of these emotions. The music complements the lyrics, creating a sense of tension and release that mirrors the struggle between facing the truth and seeking refuge from it.