I'm Afraid of Stars (feat. Serj Tankian)

"I'm Afraid of Stars" by NEMRA, featuring Serj Tankian, is a profound exploration of existential fears and the relentless passage of time. The song opens with the singer expressing a fear of stars, a metaphor for the inevitability of change and the unknown future. Stars, often seen as symbols of hope and guidance, are here portrayed as potential harbingers of doom, suggesting a deep-seated anxiety about the future and the fragility of life. This fear extends to light, which, while illuminating, can also be blinding, representing the dual nature of truth and knowledge.

The lyrics delve into the concept of time as a thief, taking away what is precious and leaving behind only memories and regrets. The "real sinner" is identified as the "clock inside our heads," a powerful metaphor for the internalized pressure and stress that time imposes on us. This internal clock is relentless, driving the singer to a state of exhaustion and existential dread. Despite having "won the hardest fights," the singer feels like a "total loser," highlighting the futility of worldly achievements in the face of time's inexorable march.

Amidst these themes of fear and time, the song also touches on love and human connection. Despite the pain it brings, love is something the singer still believes in, suggesting a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. The song critiques societal tendencies to hide behind masks and harbor hatred, urging listeners to embrace authenticity and compassion. The closing lines offer a call to "kill death" and "sing this song to stay alive," a defiant stand against despair, emphasizing the power of dreams and the human spirit to transcend the limitations imposed by time and fear.