Meaning of "Reclusion" by Anberlin

The lyrics of "Reclusion" by Anberlin explore the theme of inner darkness and its impact on others. The opening lines suggest that there is a side to the speaker that harms those around them, but it remains unnoticed by others. The line "They don't know they're dead to me 'cause, Intent never makes a sound" implies that the speaker's intentions go unheard or ignored, further emphasizing the secrecy and subtlety of their actions.

The chorus describes the person as "sick" due to the secrets they deny and the sins they hide, comparing them to skeletons. This metaphor suggests that the sins and secrets are like hidden remains that are challenging to conceal. The repeated line "So very hard to hide" emphasizes the difficulty the speaker faces in masking their true nature.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea of seclusion and repression. The speaker finds solace and even an "art" in seclusion, highlighting the twisted satisfaction they find in separating themselves from others. They use the line "If a stranger turns up missing, This song is my confession" to suggest that their actions may have led to harm or even death, revealing the confession-like nature of the song itself.

The bridge of the song reflects the internal struggle of the speaker. They feel suffocated and trapped, expressing that their true self is hidden beneath a mask that is growing heavier. This could suggest that the weight of their actions and the facade they put on is becoming overwhelming, causing them to forget who they really are.

Overall, "Reclusion" delves into the psyche of an individual who is aware of their destructive tendencies and the impact they have on others. It explores themes of secrecy, denial, and the desire for isolation, alluding to the difficult nature of hiding one's true self.