Meaning of "Citadel" by Anna Nalick

"Citadel" by Anna Nalick explores themes of fear, self-doubt, and the struggle between staying safe and venturing into the unknown. The citadel symbolizes a mental or emotional fortress that the singer has built to protect themselves from the uncertainties and challenges of the outside world. Despite the comfort and security it provides, the citadel also serves as a barrier, preventing the singer from fully living life and experiencing all its ups and downs. The lyrics express a conflict between the desire for safety and the longing for freedom and the fear of what might happen if they let go of the security the citadel offers. The imagery of walking on clouds and stars, breaking window panes, and contemplating life reflects a sense of detachment and yearning for something more meaningful and real. Ultimately, the song conveys a deep emotional struggle between holding on and letting go, between staying in a familiar but limited space and embracing the uncertainty and vulnerability of the world outside the citadel.