Alone

Parkway Drive's song 'Alone' delves deep into themes of isolation, struggle, and the search for meaning amidst chaos. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels like a stranger to the world, abandoned and battered by life's relentless challenges. The imagery of 'shifting light' and 'battered form' suggests a sense of weariness and vulnerability, as the protagonist faces an 'army of white horses'—a metaphor for the overwhelming and unstoppable forces of nature or fate that are closing in.

The recurring question, 'Evening tide, what do you hide?' reflects the uncertainty and fear of the unknown. The evening tide symbolizes the transition between day and night, a time of change that can bring either damnation or salvation. This duality is further emphasized by the 'deceiving calm' that precedes the storm, hinting at the unpredictable nature of life's challenges. The protagonist's struggle is not just physical but also existential, as they seek answers and meaning in a world that offers no clear guidance or ties to bind them.

The song's climax, marked by 'lightning cracks' and the 'angry sky,' represents the breaking point of this internal and external turmoil. The protagonist's final effort to 'strike out across the swells' signifies a desperate attempt to find answers and perhaps a sense of peace. The horizon, often seen as a symbol of hope and new beginnings, holds the promise of answers, but it remains uncertain whether these answers will bring solace or further struggle. 'Alone' captures the essence of human resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, highlighting the universal quest for meaning and connection in a seemingly indifferent world.