Meaning of "Live in a Hiding Place" by Idlewild

In "Live in a Hiding Place," Idlewild expresses the desire to retreat from the world and find sanctuary in a hidden space. The lyrics convey a sense of longing to escape from reality and the challenges that come with it. By living in a hiding place, the narrator creates a shield of safety, protecting themselves from the outside world and its demands. The phrase "It's the only way I feel safe" emphasizes the necessity of this hiding place for their well-being.

The lyrics also hint at a tendency to avoid facing reality. The line "If time was right then I would be with you again" suggests a reluctance to confront the present moment and the decisions that need to be made. This avoidance is further highlighted with the phrase "To avoid the point and then deny," indicating a pattern of sidestepping important matters. The narrator's hesitance to take action leads to a cycle of indecision and uncertainty.

Furthermore, the song touches on the struggle to find meaning in life. The line "And you're full of facts but not things that could add up to words" hints at a reliance on logic and reason rather than emotional depth. This focus on facts over emotions raises the question of whether the narrator truly understands the significance and purpose of their actions. The phrase "think about meaning more as an after word" suggests that the narrator's consideration of meaning comes as an afterthought, perhaps indicating a detachment from deeper emotions and a struggle to find fulfillment.

Overall, "Live in a Hiding Place" delves into themes of escapism, avoidance, and the search for meaning. It explores the human inclination to retreat from reality and the consequences of refusing to confront one's own choices and emotions. The lyrics capture a sense of yearning for safety and understanding while also acknowledging the difficulty of achieving those desires.