Meaning of "Hands" by Emily Jane White

The song "Hands" by Emily Jane White explores themes of vulnerability, fear, and the presence of negative influences. The repetition and emphasis on hands throughout the lyrics symbolize the overwhelming feeling of being surrounded and touched by unseen forces. The repetition of the line "Hands are all around me" emphasizes the sense of powerlessness and the omnipresence of these hands. The line "I took a walk and one became three" describes how this feeling intensifies and multiplies, possibly suggesting a sense of being consumed or overwhelmed by these unseen forces.

The lyrics also highlight a sense of danger or harm associated with these hands, as indicated by the mention of a "bad dream" and being "harmed by unsaintly arms." This suggests that these hands may represent negative influences or experiences that leave a lasting impact and contribute to a feeling of vulnerability or trauma. The line "A deathly guise took you by night" further emphasizes the menacing nature of these hands and suggests a sense of darkness or malevolence.

The phrase "This ain't no dream" indicates a shift from a dream-like state to reality, suggesting that these hand-related experiences are not mere figments of the imagination but rather tangible and impactful. The repetition of the word "dream" at the end further highlights the contrast between the unsettling hands and the desire for a peaceful, secure dream-like state.

Overall, the lyrics of "Hands" convey a sense of being overwhelmed and threatened by negative influences, represented by the hands that surround the narrator. The imagery and repetition used in the lyrics effectively create a haunting atmosphere that resonates with feelings of vulnerability, fear, and the desire for safety.