Meaning of "Candles" by Hey Monday

The meaning behind the lyrics of "Candles" delves into the themes of independence, resilience, and letting go of toxic relationships. The song begins with the narrator acknowledging their solitude after the power lines go out, symbolizing the darkness that has encompassed their relationship. They show their indifference and lack of concern for the person who has hurt them, choosing not to answer their phone. The games and broken promises made by the other person are highlighted, emphasizing their inability to follow through and the negative impact it has had. The line "Only darkness still remains" signifies the lingering pain and emotional weight the narrator still carries.

The chorus of the song, "Blow the candles out, looks like a solo tonight, I'm beginning to see the light," serves as a metaphor for the narrator finding their own strength and clarity. They are starting to see their own worth and the possibility of moving forward without the other person. They express their confidence that they will be alright despite the difficulties they have faced. The repeated line "Lost sight, couldn't see when it was you and me" emphasizes the narrator's revelation of the toxic nature of the relationship. They were blinded by their love for the other person, unable to see the negative impact it had on their own well-being.

The second verse emphasizes the narrator's resilience, stating that they have been through challenging times before and have no need to explain themselves. They reject the idea of becoming jaded and view dwelling on the past as a waste of time. The line "You're invisible, invisible to me" represents the narrator's desire to erase the memory of the person who hurt them. They no longer want them to have any presence or power over their thoughts and emotions.

The bridge of the song provides a glimmer of hope for the narrator's future. It suggests that the person who has caused them pain will eventually realize their mistakes and experience regret. The lyrics imply that they will suffer the consequences of their actions and lose everything they once had. The narrator takes comfort in this idea, knowing that they will eventually be free of their pain and find happiness.

Ultimately, "Candles" conveys a message of empowerment and resilience. It encourages the listener to let go of toxic relationships, embrace independence, and find strength within themselves. The lyrics inspire hope for a better future and convey the idea that one can overcome adversity and find happiness.