Above And Below

The Bravery's song 'Above And Below' delves into the profound emotional turmoil of feeling disconnected and disillusioned with life. The lyrics express a deep sense of wanting to escape from the overwhelming pressures and voices that make the protagonist feel ashamed. The desire to 'live down there without a sound' suggests a longing for peace and silence, away from the chaos and judgment of the world above. This sentiment is further emphasized by the recurring theme of disappearing, indicating a wish to retreat from existence itself.

A significant aspect of the song is the juxtaposition of hope and despair. The line 'Stranded with this bitch called hope' captures the paradoxical nature of hope—it is both a lifeline and a source of frustration. Hope keeps the protagonist tethered to life, even when they feel an intense urge to leave and disappear. This internal conflict is a powerful representation of the human condition, where hope can be both a blessing and a curse, preventing one from giving up entirely while also prolonging suffering.

The imagery of the city and nature in the song adds another layer of meaning. The city 'moans' and 'lunges up right from the ground,' portraying it as a living, almost monstrous entity. The earth 'spits us out,' suggesting that humanity is an unwelcome presence, a 'vicious child' that nature never wanted. This metaphorical depiction of humans as a 'cancer burning black into its heart' reflects a deep-seated guilt and alienation from the natural world. The protagonist's desire to disappear can be seen as a response to this existential crisis, a way to atone for the perceived harm caused by human existence.

'Above And Below' is a poignant exploration of the struggle between the desire to escape and the inescapable presence of hope. It captures the essence of feeling trapped in a world that seems hostile and unwelcoming, while also grappling with the internal conflict of wanting to hold on and let go simultaneously.