Meaning of "Personal" by Against The Current

"Personal" delves into the complex emotions surrounding loss and the personal attachment individuals have to someone they care about deeply. The lyrics capture the feeling of desperation and confusion after being hurt by someone and the internal struggle to move on.

The opening lines depict the singer feeling misunderstood and isolated, evidenced by them "picking fights with the clear blue wall" and struggling to connect with the person they have lost. The reference to the person getting caught in the "hunger" suggests that their actions could have been driven by external temptations or desires, which adds a layer of complexity to their departure. Although the singer acknowledges that their downfall wasn't planned, they took it personally, highlighting the personal investment they had in the relationship and the pain they experienced as a result.

The chorus reflects a sense of anger and betrayal, as the singer feels a profound personal loss when the person's eyes "turn grey" and when they are no longer around to play the role of a hero. Death is mentioned, symbolizing the permanent loss of a loved one, further intensifying the emotional impact and adding a deeper layer of grief. The singer expresses their frustration by screaming at the person's ghost, indicating their longing for their presence and the difficulty of letting go.

The second verse reveals the singer's inner conflict as they admit to trying to provoke a reaction from the person they have lost, even though they wouldn't treat them poorly. This highlights their longing for validation and a connection, even if it means resorting to negativity. The phrase "keep it going" implies a desire for the relationship to continue, but the lack of that affirmation is deeply personal to the singer.

The repetition of "Maybe I could let go" throughout the song showcases their struggle to move on and find closure. The lyrics express a desire to release the pain and anger, but simultaneously reveal the difficulty in doing so. Ultimately, the singer acknowledges that they must "finish what [the person] started" and honor their memory, symbolized by crowning their stone. This implies a commitment to continue fighting for their shared legacy and to keep the spirit of the person alive, no matter how painful it may be.