Meaning of "Repeating Yesterday" by As I Lay Dying

The lyrics of "Repeating Yesterday" delve into themes of monotony, self-reflection, and the value of love. The repetition of the phrase "This is what I am, this is what I have become: Repeating yesterday" emphasizes the speaker's frustration and sense of being stuck in a never-ending loop. The repetition also serves to emphasize the state of being trapped without progress or growth.

The line "Drain me of my very essence to form again what lasts" suggests that the speaker feels drained or depleted by their current existence, yearning for a fresh start or a transformation that would have lasting value. This notion is further emphasized when the song questions the worth of love without sacrifice, highlighting the speaker's longing for a love that is meaningful and enduring. The repetition of the line "What is love, what is love, what is love without sacrifice?" showcases the speaker's contemplation of love and its purpose in their life.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of redemption and rebirth. The line "Each day I am born, I am born again to be, again to be" suggests a desire for a new beginning, a chance to shed the repetitive patterns and start anew. The mention of being "a child in the eyes of love" reflects the innocence and vulnerability that the speaker desires, longing to return to a state of purity and open-heartedness.

Overall, "Repeating Yesterday" conveys a sense of dissatisfaction with the repetitive nature of life and the lack of fulfillment it brings. The song explores the longing for love that is transformative, sacrificial, and ultimately meaningful. It delves into the desire for redemption and rebirth, searching for a deeper sense of purpose and connection.