“Glowing Eyes” is a journey through the complexities of mental health and the struggle against darker impulses. It’s about the internal battle we face, choosing between what’s easy and familiar versus what’s hard but ultimately good for us. The song speaks to anyone who’s felt trapped by their own thoughts or life situations. It reflects a universal human experience. The message? It’s a call to confront and overcome our inner demons. The writers, Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun, crafted this song to resonate with listeners who have faced similar battles, offering both empathy and hope.
Have you ever felt like you’re in a constant tug-of-war with your own thoughts? “Glowing Eyes” by twenty one pilots might just be the anthem you didn’t know you needed. This song isn’t just a bunch of lyrics; it’s a window into a struggle many of us know too well.
“Glowing Eyes” Lyrics Meaning
Starting off with the lines “We all are stranger creatures than when we all started out as kids,” twenty one pilots immediately sets the tone. It’s a nod to how innocence and simplicity get lost as we grow up. Life adds layers of complexity, and with it comes a loss of that childlike clarity.
“Culture forbid, we have romantic fantasies about what dying truly is, fall off the grid.” Here, the band touches on how society influences our views on life and death, often romanticizing the latter as an escape. It’s a deep dive into our fascination with the unknown, especially when life feels overwhelming.
The chorus, “But do I want to say goodbye to all the glowing eyes?” is crucial. These ‘glowing eyes’ symbolize the allure of negative thoughts or harmful habits. It’s the temptation to give in to what’s harmful because it’s familiar. The protagonist is torn between letting go of these ‘glowing eyes’ and the fear of what lies beyond them.
“I’m holding on to what I know, and what I know, I must let go.” This line shows the internal conflict. There’s comfort in the known, even if it’s detrimental. But there’s also a recognition that growth and healing require letting go.
The verse “We all know somebody who knows somebody who’s doing great, I know some people who know people who are flying straight” reflects on how we perceive others’ lives. It’s about the pressure of comparing ourselves to others who seem to have it all figured out.
“This room is far too dark for us to stay around, redemption’s not that far, and darkness is going down.” The song ends on a hopeful note. Despite the struggles, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Redemption and recovery are possible.
The Story Behind “Glowing Eyes”
Joseph has openly discussed his struggles with anxiety and depression. These themes are a recurring element in his songwriting. “Glowing Eyes” is a testament to his journey, grappling with the darker aspects of his psyche while striving for hope and redemption.
The song’s creation was during a phase where Joseph was exploring the dichotomy of light and dark within himself. The ‘glowing eyes’ serve as a metaphor for the enticing yet harmful thoughts that often plague our minds. It’s a battle between succumbing to these thoughts and fighting for mental clarity.
In essence, “Glowing Eyes” isn’t just a song. It’s a narrative of struggle, self-awareness, and the pursuit of mental well-being. It resonates because it speaks to a universal battle, one where the light at the end of the tunnel isn’t just a hope, but a destination.