Hollow

Nobuo Uematsu's song 'Hollow' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of loss, longing, and the search for meaning in the face of emptiness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who feels adrift and lost, only to find solace and guidance in the presence of a significant other. This person, described as shining brightly and smiling, serves as a beacon of hope and healing, mending the protagonist's wounds and making them whole again.

The song delves into the complexities of human emotions, particularly the interplay between hope and despair. The protagonist questions the reality of their experiences, wondering if the moments of connection and healing were merely dreams. This uncertainty is compounded by a sense of regret, as they ponder whether different choices could have led to a different outcome—one where they could still hold their loved one in their embrace. The recurring imagery of light and darkness, smiles and tears, underscores the duality of their emotional state.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the loved one is no longer present, leaving the protagonist to grapple with their absence. The lyrics reveal a deep sense of emptiness and selfishness, as the protagonist acknowledges their own flaws and the void they sought to fill. Despite this, there is a yearning for one more smile, one more moment of truth, even as they recognize that their loved one is long gone. The final lines capture the essence of the song's title, as the protagonist resigns themselves to a life of howling and hollowness, forever haunted by what they will never know.