The Wrecks – “Unholy” Lyrics Meaning

“Unholy” by The Wrecks is a song about transformation and breaking free. It speaks to the journey from being controlled or influenced by someone else to rediscovering and embracing one’s true self. The song hints at a relationship – not necessarily romantic – where one person felt suppressed or overshadowed by the other’s personality or actions. The message is powerful: it’s about shedding the past and emerging stronger, more self-assured. The songwriter, influenced by personal experiences, uses this track to express the liberation that comes from breaking free from negative influences.

Ever wondered about the journey from feeling suppressed to breaking free? “Unholy” by The Wrecks is a story of transformation, a battle of the self, and a declaration of independence. Keep reading to unravel the layers of this compelling track.


“Unholy” Lyrics Meaning

“Unholy” unfolds line by line, revealing someone trapped in a toxic dynamic, yearning for change. “I used to tell myself it’s not what it seems” suggests a state of denial, a common initial reaction in toxic relationships.

“You used to cover rage or praise the police” might imply dealing with a person who is unpredictable and possibly manipulative. The repeated use of “I used to…” signals a past self, one that’s different from the current narrator. “You wear your pride like a purity ring” can be interpreted as the other person’s pretentious or hypocritical moral standing.

As the song progresses, we see a shift. The lines “Open your eyes, there’s a surprise / Here comes the old me / I feel unholy” signify a turning point. This is about reclaiming one’s identity, feeling ‘unholy’ in the sense of breaking away from what was once considered pure or right by the other person’s standards.

The chorus, “I’m back and I’m better than ever / Hotter than a cashmere sweater”, is a bold statement of renewed self-confidence. It’s a declaration of being unapologetically oneself, contrasting the past restrained self.

The phrase “You finally broke me” is paradoxical. It initially seems to suggest defeat, but in context, it’s about breaking free from the other person’s influence – a necessary ‘breaking’ to rediscover oneself.

“Open my eyes, I saw the light / Something’s taken over me” reinforces this theme of awakening and transformation. The song ends with the narrator fully embracing this new, liberated self.

The Story Behind “Unholy”

The writer may have been contemplating past relationships – not necessarily romantic – where they felt overshadowed or suppressed. It’s a realization that sometimes, breaking free requires an internal revolution. “Unholy” isn’t just about leaving something or someone behind; it’s about the emotional and psychological journey that accompanies such a departure. The process of writing the song could have been cathartic for the artist, a way to process and articulate complex feelings and experiences.

The song serves as a reminder that personal growth often comes from challenging experiences. It’s a celebration of self-rediscovery and the strength that comes from embracing one’s true self, unhindered by others’ expectations or influences.