Deafening Silence

Serj Tankian's 'Deafening Silence' is a haunting exploration of inner conflict and the struggle to reconcile one's identity with the passage of time. The repetition of the lines 'I know who you are' and 'I know who you are not' suggests a deep introspection, as if the narrator is grappling with understanding their true self versus the facade they present to the world. This duality is further emphasized by the 'deafening silence,' a metaphor for the overwhelming and often paralyzing nature of unspoken truths and unresolved emotions.

The recurring theme of silence in the song is not just a lack of sound but a powerful, almost oppressive force. The silence 'threatening when she appears' and the 'ceremony is performed' could symbolize moments of confrontation with one's inner demons or past traumas. The 'ceremony' might represent a ritualistic facing of these fears, a necessary but painful process of self-examination and acceptance. The imagery of painting with tears and decrying one's spirit over fears highlights the emotional toll of this journey, where tears become a medium of expression and release.

The lyrics also touch on the passage of time and its impact on the psyche. Phrases like 'the hands of time, time always meddling' and 'I can't walk away from all the years' reflect a sense of being trapped by one's past and the relentless march of time. The mention of 'nightlights for children' and 'morning for adults' contrasts innocence with the harsh realities of adulthood, suggesting a loss of simplicity and the burden of accumulated experiences. The song's cyclical nature, with the reappearance of the serene figure, implies that this struggle is ongoing, a continuous dance between understanding and confusion, peace and turmoil.