Echo
VOCALOID
The Inner Turmoil Reflected in 'Echo'
The song 'Echo' by VOCALOID delves into the depths of inner conflict and mental instability. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their own mind, feeling lost and unable to grasp reality. The opening lines, 'The clock stopped ticking / Forever ago,' suggest a sense of timelessness and disorientation, as if the narrator has been stuck in a state of confusion for an indeterminate period. This feeling is compounded by the lines, 'I can't get a grip, but I can't let go / There wasn't anything to hold onto, though,' which highlight the struggle to find stability in a seemingly unstable world.
The recurring question, 'Why can't I see / All the colours / That you see?' reflects a longing for normalcy and a desire to experience life as others do. This plea for help is further emphasized by the lines, 'What the hell's going on? / Can someone tell me, please / Why I'm switching faster than the channels on TV?' The rapid changes in mood and perception are likened to the erratic switching of TV channels, illustrating the chaotic nature of the narrator's mind.
The chorus, 'I'm black, then I'm white / No, something isn't right / My enemy's invisible, I don't know how to fight,' encapsulates the essence of the song. The narrator's struggle with an unseen enemy—likely a metaphor for their own mental health issues—creates a sense of helplessness and fear. The repeated imagery of burning the house down and running away signifies a desperate desire to escape from this turmoil. The 'echo in the mirror' represents the inescapable nature of their inner demons, constantly reflecting back at them and amplifying their fears.
'Echo' is a powerful exploration of mental health, capturing the confusion, fear, and desperation that often accompany such struggles. The song's haunting lyrics and repetitive structure mirror the cyclical nature of these internal battles, making it a poignant and relatable piece for many listeners.