Glass Half Empty

VOILÀ's 'Glass Half Empty' delves deep into the emotional and psychological battles that many individuals face. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who has been struggling with their mental health for a long time. The opening lines, 'All my life / Been waging war in my mind,' immediately set the tone for a narrative of internal conflict and a search for peace. The recurring theme of waiting for something positive, 'Been praying for Sun to shine,' highlights a sense of hope amidst the turmoil.

The metaphor of the 'glass half empty' is central to the song's message. Traditionally, seeing the glass as half empty is associated with pessimism. However, VOILÀ uses this metaphor to suggest that this perspective has been a form of baptism, a way to confront and understand their own struggles. The line 'Just a way to be baptized / In the taste of your own medicine' suggests that facing these negative feelings head-on is a necessary step towards healing, even if it is painful.

The song also touches on the societal pressures and expectations placed on individuals, especially artists. The lines 'And I call it a cry for help / But you call it a chorus' reflect the often-dismissed cries for help that are masked by the facade of art and performance. The artist's exhaustion and the feeling of being trapped in a life they didn't necessarily choose, 'What if this wasn't what I wanted / Can I return the life I've started,' resonate with many who feel overwhelmed by their circumstances. The song is a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging and addressing mental health issues, rather than ignoring them for the sake of appearances or success.