Away
The Cranberries
A Plea for Solitude and Healing in 'Away' by The Cranberries
The Cranberries' song 'Away' is a poignant exploration of emotional pain and the desire for solitude as a means of healing. The repeated plea to 'turn away' suggests a need for distance, perhaps from a relationship or a situation that has caused significant distress. This distance is not just physical but emotional, as the narrator seeks space to process their feelings and find peace. The act of praying indicates a search for solace and a hope that the pain will eventually subside, highlighting a deep sense of vulnerability and a yearning for relief.
The lyrics also introduce the concept of 'another world wrapped up inside another place,' which can be interpreted as a metaphor for the inner emotional landscape that the narrator is navigating. This inner world is complex and layered, suggesting that the pain is not straightforward but intertwined with various aspects of their life and identity. The hope and prayer for the pain to go away reflect a desire to untangle these layers and find clarity and peace within themselves.
The Cranberries, known for their emotive and often melancholic musical style, use simple yet powerful language in 'Away' to convey a universal experience of suffering and the quest for healing. The repetition of phrases like 'turn away' and 'I pray' emphasizes the intensity of the narrator's feelings and their desperate need for respite. This song resonates with anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by their emotions and sought a moment of solitude to regain their strength and composure.