WAKING UP

Starset's song "WAKING UP" delves into the existential crisis of feeling disconnected from reality. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with the sensation of being trapped in a dream-like state, unable to fully engage with the world around them. The opening lines, "Is this real? 'Cause I can’t feel," set the tone for a journey through confusion and detachment. The protagonist reaches into the darkness, only to find nothing to hold onto, symbolizing a search for meaning in a seemingly empty existence.

The recurring theme of losing control is evident as the lyrics describe attempts to heal and stop the spiraling thoughts, only to find themselves deeper in chaos. The metaphor of being a "ghost in my own machine" suggests a sense of being an observer in one's own life, disconnected from the physical and emotional experiences that define human existence. This is further emphasized by the reference to a "sandbox in the entropy," highlighting the randomness and disorder that the protagonist feels trapped within.

The chorus, with its repetitive declaration of "I'm not waking up," underscores the persistent state of limbo the protagonist finds themselves in. The song explores the idea of being stuck between reality and a dream, questioning whether the experiences and memories are genuine or merely constructs of the mind. The mention of "conversations with simulations" and "salvation lost in translation" adds a layer of modern existential dread, hinting at the influence of technology and artificial interactions on our sense of self and reality. Ultimately, "WAKING UP" is a haunting reflection on the struggle to find clarity and connection in an increasingly fragmented world.