ICARUS

Starset's song 'ICARUS' draws heavily from the Greek myth of Icarus, who flew too close to the sun with wings made of feathers and wax, only to have them melt and fall into the sea. The lyrics metaphorically explore themes of ambition, failure, and the cyclical nature of striving for greatness only to fall short. The protagonist in the song is likened to Icarus, repeatedly attempting to soar to great heights but inevitably crashing down, symbolizing the relentless pursuit of dreams despite the fear of failure.

The song opens with the imagery of broken wings, suggesting repeated failures and the resilience to try again. The protagonist makes new wings out of 'broken things,' indicating a resourceful yet fragile attempt to achieve their goals. The lyrics 'afraid of heights so you don't believe you could ever be good enough' highlight the internal conflict and self-doubt that often accompany ambitious endeavors. This fear of not being 'good enough' is a recurring theme, emphasizing the psychological barriers that hinder success.

The chorus, 'Go on then Icarus, take your turn,' serves as both a challenge and a lament. It acknowledges the protagonist's relentless drive to reach for the skies, despite the inevitable downfall. The repetition of 'you always fly right up until it burns' underscores the tragic pattern of ambition leading to self-destruction. The song also touches on the idea of self-deception and external blame, as seen in the lines 'telling yourself it's the world that holds you down' and 'looking for a scapegoat to hold your feet.' This suggests a refusal to fully accept personal responsibility for one's failures, further complicating the cycle of ambition and downfall.

Ultimately, 'ICARUS' by Starset is a poignant reflection on the human condition, exploring the delicate balance between aspiration and the harsh realities of failure. It serves as a reminder of the cost of ambition and the importance of self-awareness in the pursuit of one's dreams.