The Dark

SYML's song 'The Dark' delves into the profound themes of struggle, faith, and redemption. The opening lines, 'My fire is starved of oxygen / A flicker in the howling wind,' set a tone of vulnerability and impending darkness. The imagery of a dwindling fire in a fierce wind symbolizes the artist's waning strength and hope. The night closing in and the fear of shadows winning if he falls asleep further emphasize the battle against inner demons and despair.

The song takes a pivotal turn with the introduction of a transformative figure, described as 'My love came down like holy rain / And she became my God that day.' This person, likely a significant other, becomes a beacon of hope and salvation. She teaches the artist to 'think out loud,' 'listen when there ain't no sound,' and 'love myself through all the doubt.' These lines suggest a journey of self-discovery and healing, guided by love and support. The repetition of 'to sing and make my mother proud' adds a layer of personal fulfillment and the desire to honor one's roots and upbringing.

In the final verses, the artist finds solace and rebirth in the darkness. 'In the dark I learned to love again / A sacred place it's always been' portrays the dark not as an enemy but as a place of introspection and growth. The darkness, once feared, becomes a source of light and renewal. This transformation highlights the theme of finding strength and clarity through adversity. The repeated line 'the dark led me to light again' encapsulates the song's message of hope and the cyclical nature of struggle and redemption.