Meaning of "Angels" by Avenged Sevenfold

The lyrics of "Angels" delve into the internal struggles and regrets of the protagonist, who reflects upon the consequences of his past actions and the toll they have taken on his life. The opening lines reveal a sense of weariness and disillusionment, as the protagonist admits that it took him years to make his motives clear and that the passage of time has not been kind to him. The once confident and charming individual has become burdened and hardened by life's trials, and darkness seems to always find him.

The plea to "mother" throughout the song suggests a desire for guidance and comfort, as the protagonist asks for the devil to be washed from his hands and prays for strength to stand. This could symbolize a longing for redemption and forgiveness, as well as a longing for the innocence and purity associated with a mother's love. The repeated question of whether it was all a lie indicates a sense of disillusionment and a struggle with the truth.

The line "show me where the angels die" reflects a search for meaning and purpose. It suggests a desire to understand the consequences of one's actions and to find a sense of closure or resolution. The protagonist acknowledges that there are words left unsaid and memories he would rather forget, but it seems he has lost his ability to move forward and let go of the past. The refrain about running faster and the gun growing closer could represent a feeling of impending doom or the consequences of one's actions catching up to them.

The lyrics also touch upon the theme of lost opportunities and the longing for a different path. The protagonist confesses that he should have chased the stars instead of taking the road he did, highlighting a sense of regret and a yearning for a different outcome. The burning of the shared photo represents a deliberate act of erasing the past, further emphasizing the protagonist's difficulty in reconciling with his choices.

Overall, "Angels" explores themes of regret, loss, and the search for redemption. The lyrics convey a sense of longing for guidance and a desire to find a way back to a more hopeful and meaningful existence. It reflects the internal struggles of the protagonist and their yearning for resolution and understanding.