Meaning of "Umbra" by Karnivool

The lyrics of "Umbra" by Karnivool delve into the emotions and thoughts of the narrator, highlighting their inner turmoil and desire for escape from their current state. The opening lines, "Paint, Me in your own way, Color my eyes, See what feelings I hide," suggest a plea to others to see beyond their exterior and understand the deep emotions and hidden pain within. The narrator feels isolated and misunderstood, as depicted in the lines "No-one knows why, No one can forgive, Second thought, Why do I care?" They question the importance of others' opinions and why they allow these opinions to affect them.

The themes of searching for safety and luck run throughout the lyrics. The narrator expresses their lack of feeling safe, stating "Well I don't feel so safe here" and "Well I don't feel so lucky, no." They long for a sense of security, hoping to find comfort and stability. However, they also acknowledge the transient nature of luck, referring to it as a "game." The lyrics depict a constant struggle to understand and navigate life's uncertainties.

The lyrics also hint at a troubled past and the narrator's battle with addiction. The lines "Wake me with a bottle 'cross the head, I'll sleep 'til it's over and I'm sober again" allude to relying on alcohol as a form of escape and coping mechanism. There is a sense of regret and self-awareness of their destructive behavior. The repeated line "I'll always go" reflects their awareness that their addictive tendencies may always be present.

As the lyrics progress, the narrator poses thought-provoking questions, such as "Do you think it matters?" and "Are we complicated? Or do we know it all?" These questions point to the complexity of human nature and the constant search for meaning and understanding. The narrator questions their own existence and the significance of their actions. They yearn for a deeper comprehension of themselves and the world around them.

In the closing lines, the lyrics take a darker turn, with the mention of a troubled sinner holding a gun. This imagery suggests an inner struggle and potential self-destructive tendencies. The narrator reflects on wasted moments and the weight of their past actions, begging for their promises to be held and for others to leave them in solitude.

Overall, the lyrics of "Umbra" by Karnivool delve into the emotional landscape of the narrator, revealing their desire for escape, struggle with addiction, and search for understanding and meaning in a complex world.