Meaning of "Hiding" by Florence + The Machine

The song "Hiding" by Florence + The Machine explores the theme of emotional hiding, vulnerability, and the desire for connection. The lyrics portray a narrator who identifies that the person they're addressing conceals their true emotions and struggles from the outside world. This hiding is expressed as something done during times when the world is asleep and tired, suggesting that the person only allows their vulnerabilities to surface in moments of solitude and isolation. The line "You cry a little, so do I" demonstrates the narrator's acknowledgment of their own emotional turmoil, creating a sense of solidarity with the person they're addressing.

The narrator expresses their eagerness to understand and support the person, conveying a desire for a deeper connection. However, they acknowledge the person's unwillingness to let others in, attributing it to pride. This pride creates a barrier that prevents the narrator from fully reaching and understanding the person's hidden self. Despite this obstacle, the narrator promises to give as much as they receive, urging the person to show vulnerability so that they can bridge the distance between them.

There is a sense of urgency and longing throughout the song, emphasized by the repeated refrain "Tell me I will be released, not sure I can deal with this, up all night again this week, breaking things that I should keep." These lines portray the narrator's yearning for the person to confide in them, as well as their own struggle to cope with the emotional weight they carry. The metaphor of breaking things that should be kept represents both the damaging impact of suppressing emotions and the need for authentic communication to foster healing and growth.

Overall, "Hiding" delves into the complexity of human emotions and the challenges of opening up to others. It emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and the potential for understanding and connection that can arise from shared experiences. The song encourages the listener to confront their fears, let go of protective walls, and embrace emotional honesty as a means to forge deeper connections with others.