Meaning of "Empty Gold" by Halsey

"Empty Gold" is a song that delves into themes of loneliness, struggle, and resilience. The lyrics suggest a deep longing for connection and the difficulties faced in trying to overcome personal challenges. The opening lines, "I, I must confess, How hard I tried to breathe, Through the trees of loneliness," convey a sense of desperation and the inescapable feeling of isolation. The protagonist is having difficulty breathing, metaphorically struggling to find a sense of purpose or companionship.

The lyrics continue to address the need for visibility and understanding, with the line, "And you, you must confess, How hard you need to see, Through the heart beating out my chest." Here, the protagonist emphasizes the importance of being seen and understood by others, implying a desire for genuine connection. There is a vulnerability in exposing one's true self, which the protagonist hopes the other person can recognize.

Throughout the song, the image of falling down like autumn leaves is repeated, representing a sense of continuous descent and struggle. The line, "But baby don't let winter come, Don't let our hearts freeze," suggests a fear of emotional detachment or becoming hardened due to life's challenges. The mention of "empty gold" further emphasizes the transient and hollow nature of material possessions or superficial achievements. The protagonist seeks something more meaningful and lasting.

The chorus introduces a more defiant tone, with the lyrics stating that if the morning light doesn't steal their soul, they will walk away from empty gold. This can be interpreted as a determination to not let external circumstances define their worth or happiness. They refuse to succumb to the pressures and adversities faced in life.

The bridge of the song introduces a sense of camaraderie and unity, with the lyrics portraying the protagonist and others as underdogs in the world. They consider themselves believers, with a fever running through their bones, suggesting a strong conviction and passion for their beliefs and values. The mention of alley cats symbolizes resilience and the ability to overcome adversity, as they withstand the stones thrown at them by others. The final repetition of the chorus reinforces their resilience and determination to not let their souls be stolen by the hardships of life.