From The Sun
Unknown Mortal Orchestra
The Weight of Isolation: A Deep Dive into 'From The Sun' by Unknown Mortal Orchestra
Unknown Mortal Orchestra's 'From The Sun' delves into the heavy and often dark themes of isolation and loneliness. The repetition of the line 'Isolation can put a gun in your hand' starkly highlights the dangerous and potentially destructive impact of prolonged solitude. This metaphorical 'gun' represents the mental and emotional toll that isolation can take, suggesting that it can drive individuals to extreme actions or thoughts. The song's lyrics emphasize the urgency and severity of these feelings, making it clear that isolation is not just a physical state but a deeply psychological one.
The recurring mention of 'getting away from the sun' serves as a metaphor for escaping the harsh realities and pressures of life. The sun, often symbolizing life, energy, and positivity, is something the narrator feels the need to escape from, indicating a desire to retreat from the overwhelming aspects of existence. This escape is not necessarily a solution but a temporary respite from the burdens they carry. The line 'If you need to you can throw away the only one' further underscores the sense of desperation and the lengths to which one might go to find relief from their suffering.
The song also touches on the pervasive sense of fatigue and loneliness that accompanies isolation. The narrator's inability to 'lay down my head' or 'reach the phone' illustrates a profound sense of helplessness and disconnection. These lines convey the struggle of wanting to reach out or find rest but being unable to do so, trapped in a cycle of exhaustion and solitude. The mention of eating popcorn alone adds a mundane yet poignant detail, highlighting the everyday moments that are colored by loneliness. Through its haunting lyrics and repetitive structure, 'From The Sun' paints a vivid picture of the emotional landscape of isolation, making it a powerful and resonant piece.