Meaning of "Nothing Else" by Archive

The lyrics of "Nothing Else" by Archive delve into themes of corruption, inequality, and the human desire for a better world. The song paints a bleak picture of a society where angels have their wings clipped and wander in darkness on grimy ground. The forest described as unclean and unsound represents a world that has lost its purity and goodness. Everything has gone wild, suggesting a complete breakdown of order and morality. The mention of leaflets scattering to advertise and sellout reflects the prevalence of greed and the selling out of values for personal gain.

The swamp mentioned in the lyrics symbolizes a place where the powerful try to catch the passing dime and collect donations for themselves. While widened pavements may provide some comfort to the poor, the reality is that they still have nowhere else to lie, emphasizing the unequal distribution of resources. The slightly ajar carriage door signifies a possibility of escape or change, despite the uneasiness caused by clipped wings. It suggests that even in a world filled with darkness, there is still hope for reaching a better place.

The song expresses a yearning for a place where the feast of life never ends, where there is eternal celebration through music. This represents a longing for a society where joy, abundance, and harmony prevail. The mention of darkness belonging to night skies and nothing else signifies a desire for darkness to be confined to its natural place, symbolizing the end of corruption and suffering.

In the second half of the song, the focus shifts to the individual's struggle with their own fears and desires. The spirit sees tomorrow, indicating a forward-looking mindset, but the mind is plagued by present fears. The soul aches deeply, expressing a longing for something more, while the body craves reaching a better place. These lines highlight the universal human longing for a world where peace and fulfillment can be found.

Overall, "Nothing Else" by Archive delves into themes of corruption, inequality, and the longing for a better world. It portrays a society filled with darkness and a yearning for a place where the feast of life never ends. The song serves as a reflection on the challenges that individuals and society face, while also inspiring hope for a brighter future.