Meaning of "Holy" by Frightened Rabbit

The lyrics of "Holy" delve into the complexities of human emotions, particularly those tied to loneliness and personal flaws. The riot act mentioned in the opening lines suggests that someone is trying to enforce authority or control over the narrator. However, the narrator dismisses this by stating they are too far gone and have lost their pride. This loss of pride could be interpreted as a sense of resignation or acceptance of their own imperfections. The repetition of phrases like "I don’t mind being lonely" and "You're acting all holy" reveals a defiance and refusal to conform to societal expectations.

The concept of religion is present throughout the song, with references to a "new testament," soliloquies, and the idea of being saved. The narrator questions the authenticity of religious teachings, symbolized by the request to "Preach what you write." There is a sense of skepticism towards those who claim to be holy or righteous, with the narrator acknowledging their own flaws and feeling okay about it.

The repeated line "I'm just full of holes" is a striking metaphorical expression. Holes can be seen as imperfections, vulnerabilities, or gaps in one's personality or character. The narrator embraces this aspect of themselves, recognizing that they are not perfect and never will be. Rather than striving for holiness, they find comfort and authenticity in being true to themselves, flaws and all.

Overall, "Holy" captures a sense of defiance against societal expectations and a rejection of the idea of striving for perfection. It celebrates self-acceptance and finding solace in one's imperfections, rather than seeking validation from others who claim to be holy or superior.