Living

Tender's song 'Living' delves deep into the emotional and psychological struggles of self-isolation and inner turmoil. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with feelings of detachment and existential questioning. The opening lines, 'Is this really living? / 'Cause I can't bring myself to get on with it,' set the tone for the entire song, highlighting a sense of stagnation and helplessness. The protagonist is caught in a cycle of dwelling on uncontrollable aspects of life, leading to a state of inertia where even getting out of bed becomes a challenge.

The recurring theme of self-isolation is evident in lines like 'Wrap myself in a duvet / And keep myself to myself.' This imagery suggests a desire to retreat from the world, finding solace in solitude. The chorus, 'How do I come around? / Now / I'm giving into the sound / Of the voices / In my head,' reveals an internal battle with intrusive thoughts and the struggle to find peace with one's choices. The protagonist is making a conscious decision to stay away from others, indicating a complex relationship with social interaction and self-worth.

The song also touches on the concept of self-perception and the facade people often put on to hide their true feelings. Lines like 'I'll put on my brave face / But you'll soon see why / I hide in plain sight' suggest that the protagonist is masking their pain and thriving in their own company, despite feeling 'voiceless.' The repeated question, 'Am I a danger to myself? / I hope so,' adds a layer of dark introspection, hinting at a deeper struggle with mental health. 'Living' by Tender is a poignant exploration of the complexities of self-isolation, mental health, and the search for inner peace.