It's Called: Freefall
Paris Paloma
The Devil's Bargain: A Dance with Despair in 'It's Called: Freefall'
Paris Paloma's song 'It's Called: Freefall' delves into the dark and introspective themes of despair, existential crisis, and the struggle for self-identity. The song opens with a conversation between the narrator and the Devil, setting a tone that is both eerie and contemplative. The Devil's casual responses about his preferences for drums, cigarettes, and rum on specific days hint at a deeper metaphor for the cyclical nature of human vices and the comfort found in routine, even in the face of damnation.
The lyrics explore the narrator's feelings of isolation and the futility of trying to maintain friendships. The line 'Never had they needed a good friend as I've been' suggests a one-sided effort in relationships, leading to resentment and a sense of betrayal. This is further emphasized by the imagery of a noose mistaken for a necklace, symbolizing the destructive nature of these toxic relationships. The repeated refrain 'You could let it all go, it's called freefall' serves as a haunting reminder of the ease with which one can succumb to despair and give up on life's struggles.
The Devil's advice to 'handle your shit' and 'know yourself and who you came in with' underscores the importance of self-awareness and personal responsibility. Despite the Devil's role as a tempter, his words carry a paradoxical wisdom, highlighting the internal battle between giving in to despair and fighting to maintain one's integrity. The song's conclusion, with the Devil noting the narrator's tendency to prioritize others over themselves, encapsulates the central theme of self-neglect and the ultimate choice to either continue down a path of self-destruction or to 'let it all go' and find liberation in freefall.