Ariel
October Project
The Heartbreaking Farewell of Ariel
October Project's song "Ariel" is a poignant exploration of the themes of love, loss, and the desire for freedom. The protagonist, Ariel, expresses a deep yearning to break free from a situation that has become unbearable, yet is filled with sorrow and guilt for leaving behind someone they deeply care about. The lyrics convey a sense of entrapment, where Ariel feels enslaved by the sorrow of their loved one, indicating a relationship that has become emotionally overwhelming.
The repeated pleas for forgiveness highlight Ariel's internal conflict. They are torn between the fear of leaving and the fear of staying, suggesting a toxic or unsustainable relationship. The imagery of the wind and ocean water washing away footsteps and memories serves as a metaphor for cleansing and starting anew. It symbolizes the desire to erase the past and the pain associated with it, allowing both parties to move on and heal.
The song also touches on the aftermath of a tumultuous period, described as a storm that has left the earth dry and torn. This could represent the emotional devastation that both Ariel and their loved one have endured. Despite the love Ariel feels, they recognize that staying would only perpetuate the cycle of pain. The final repetition of the desire to be washed away like sand underscores the longing for liberation and the hope for a fresh start, free from the burdens of the past.