Meaning of "Act Appalled" by Circa Survive

The lyrics of "Act Appalled" by Circa Survive delve into the theme of deception and the desire to break free from pretense and return to a genuine and authentic state of being. The opening lines, "Will you walk straight? we're not like them / To fool them in, make it seem like you're in trouble," highlight the idea of conforming to societal expectations and putting on a façade to avoid judgment or scrutiny. However, the question arises as to what has caused this fear and need to pretend – "What made you so scared? / Maybe you're mistaken for someone who cares." These lyrics suggest that the narrator is questioning whether their actions are driven by genuine concern or whether they are simply acting as a means of self-preservation.

The chorus symbolizes a longing to return to a more authentic self, with the repeated line "If you remember, remember / I've been trying to get back to the center." This suggests that the narrator is striving to rediscover their true identity and reconnect with their core values, which may have become distorted or lost amidst the pressures of society. The lyrics "I'm sure it's not like it was before" acknowledge that the journey back to authenticity may not be easy, as things have changed and the path forward may be uncertain. Yet, the desire to find one's true self persists.

The subsequent lines, "To make them drink, tell them that it's only water / No one leaves till we figure this out," suggest a call to challenge the status quo and be honest with others, even if it disrupts the façades they have created. This can be interpreted as a plea for sincerity and deep connections, rather than preserving superficial relationships.

In the bridge, the lyrics revolve around the idea of patience. The lines "Both we and our words are overproduced by influence" convey a sense of being controlled or manipulated by external forces, which inhibits the ability to live authentically. The repetition of "by influence" emphasizes the power that these external influences hold over individuals.

Overall, "Act Appalled" by Circa Survive portrays a longing to break free from the confines of pretense and return to a genuine, unadulterated state of being. It explores the fear, uncertainty, and the transformative journey required to rediscover one's true identity.