Meaning of "Waves of Fear" by Lou Reed

The lyrics of "Waves of Fear" delve into the depths of anxiety and paranoia. Lou Reed captures the overwhelming sensations and thoughts that come with fear, depicting a state of mind where everything feels terrifying. The repetition of the phrase "waves of fear" emphasizes the cyclical nature of anxiety, suggesting that the overwhelming panic comes in waves, intensifying and then receding momentarily before returning. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the physical and emotional toll that fear takes on the speaker. The descriptions of a racing heart, tight chest, blood dripping from the nose, and difficulty breathing illustrate the somatic effects of fear, showing how it can manifest physically. The speaker's fear is so consuming that they are unable to perform basic tasks like using the phone or turning on a light, indicating a loss of control and a deep sense of helplessness. They are trapped in their own mind, suffocating under the weight of their own thoughts. The disgust and self-hatred expressed in lines such as "I cringe at my terror, I hate my own smell" suggest a deep sense of shame and self-loathing that often accompanies anxiety. The lyrics also touch upon the theme of mortality, with references to death and the speaker feeling like they are in hell. Overall, "Waves of Fear" provides a raw and visceral exploration of the psychological and physical toll that fear can have on an individual.