Meaning of "Variation" by Dance Gavin Dance

"Variation" delves into the internal struggles and emotional turmoil that can result from living a stagnant life and being unable to embrace change. The repetition of the phrase "We lie cold" suggests a sense of emotional detachment and an unwillingness to confront reality. The lyrics convey a feeling of being stuck in a state of indecision, ignoring the signs and refusing to take risks. The line "Living in fear of our lies" indicates a fear of facing the truth and the consequences that come with it.

The song explores the concept of feeling neither good enough nor bad enough, existing in a state of mediocrity. This is reflected in the line "Never bad enough to break it or good enough to feel right." The notion of being in "overtime half our lives" implies a prolonged period of dissatisfaction and stagnation. There is a sense of dependency on fleeting moments of excitement and exhilaration, indicated by the line "On the rush of the moment."

The lyrics also touch on the theme of mortality and the transient nature of life. The line "Death murders everything in sight" represents the constant reminder of our mortality and the fragility of existence. It suggests that we cannot escape the inevitability of death, and that it haunts us in every aspect of our lives.

The song addresses the impact of doubt on one's ability to move forward. The repetition of the line "Am I the reason that you can't look past your future self" suggests a self-destructive pattern of thinking and a lack of self-confidence. The lyrics convey a sense of being trapped in one's own thoughts and unable to embrace new possibilities.

Overall, "Variation" portrays the struggles and anxieties that can arise from a life lived in fear, indecision, and self-doubt. It speaks to the desire for change, fulfillment, and the challenge of breaking free from the constraints of a stagnant existence.