Penance

Soen's song 'Penance' delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of isolation, inner turmoil, and the quest for peace. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with their inner demons, feeling isolated and numb. The opening lines, 'In silence, isolated, trying to stand on your own,' set the tone for a journey of self-discovery and struggle. The metaphor of feeding a leech that feasts on one's blood symbolizes the self-destructive behaviors and thoughts that drain one's vitality and spirit.

The song continues to explore the idea of wearing indifference as a mask to hide one's true feelings and struggles. The walls built up and the glass filled represent barriers and coping mechanisms that ultimately bury one's cries for help. The recurring theme of inner demons, 'deceived by inner demons that were fed by your own hand,' highlights the self-inflicted nature of these struggles. The shaded veils and shooting nails into the heart and head symbolize the pain and confusion that cloud one's perception and judgment.

Despite the dark and heavy themes, 'Penance' offers a glimmer of hope. The chorus speaks of finding peace and freedom from fear, suggesting that through stillness and introspection, one can overcome their inner demons. The imagery of the moonlight and the journey out in the cold further emphasizes the struggle and the hope for a brighter future. The song concludes with a sense of release and acceptance, as the lyrics 'In this life all ends, you’ll leave us' acknowledge the inevitability of life's end, but also the possibility of finding peace and freedom in the process.