Meaning of "Thunder & Lightning" by Brown Bird

The lyrics of "Thunder & Lightning" delve into themes of isolation, despair, disillusionment, and regret. The song begins with the protagonist hearing thunder and lightning, a metaphor for a powerful force that struck their emotional and mental state. The tower represents their isolation, and the world's lack of fear suggests that their struggles go unnoticed by others.

The imagery of huddling alone in a tower of tears and the mention of poison blood and brittle bones reinforce the sense of internal turmoil and vulnerability. The protagonist feels overwhelmed by their fears, which begin to consume them, causing their home — both physical and emotional — to crack and crumble.

The second verse delves into societal issues, criticizing the cruel and crass nature of those in power and the absence of truth. The line "No truth in a world full of lies" reflects a sense of disillusionment with the state of society. It suggests that the protagonist perceives a lack of integrity and honesty in the world, causing them to feel lost and disheartened.

The third verse explores the concept of guilt and self-reflection. The protagonist questions why people cry for their lost opportunities and mourn the times when they could have had their way. This highlights a sense of regret, suggesting that the protagonist feels they have missed out on important moments or made choices that they now remorse.

The mention of being hard-hearted heathens to soul-saving saints and spilling blood in the same God's holy name shines a light on the hypocrisy and contradictions within religious or moral institutions. The protagonist criticizes those who claim to be righteous yet engage in harmful actions, painting a bleak picture of humanity's dark side.

The refrain emphasizes the themes of isolation and despair, repeating the lines about shaking hands with holy ghosts, dancing along an ivory coast, sharing flesh with passing shadows, and breathing in sin. These lines suggest a sense of emptiness and the acceptance of one's own flaws and mistakes. The mention of broken hopes and bastard actions adds to the overall melancholic tone of the song.

In conclusion, "Thunder & Lightning" delves into themes of isolation, despair, disillusionment, and regret. It highlights the internal struggles of the protagonist, as well as their observations and criticisms of society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world filled with hypocrisy and falsehood, leaving the protagonist feeling lost and disillusioned.