Meaning of "Ashes" by 10 Years

The lyrics of "Ashes" delve into the existential dilemma of human existence, pondering whether our actions are predetermined or if we have the agency to shape our own destinies. The imagery of ashes and dust symbolizes the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. The repetition of laying memories out to rust suggests a sense of letting go and accepting the impermanence of all things. The references to finding truth, struggling with gravity, and stumbling on reckless youth reflect the internal conflicts and uncertainties that come with growing up and trying to make sense of the world. Overall, the song conveys a sense of nihilism, as the speaker grapples with the idea of mortality and the passing of time.