Meaning of "Away" by Of Mice & Men

The lyrics of "Away" explore the themes of self-sabotage and the struggle to escape one's own problems. The opening lines suggest a pattern of repeatedly falling into self-dug holes, representing the mistakes and burdens we carry. The ignorance towards the depth of these holes signifies a lack of understanding or awareness of the consequences of our actions. The mention of a place for rest highlights the desire for relief or respite from the difficulties of life. However, this temporary solace is disrupted by rain, symbolizing distress and emotional turmoil.

The recurring line, "I hear your voice, it's calling out and fading away," portrays a longing for connection or support. This voice represents an external force or person trying to reach out, potentially offering guidance and help. The protagonist's hesitation is evident in the line, "If it's your choice, then pull me out and push me away." This conflict between wanting assistance and the fear of embracing it creates a cycle of pushing and pulling away from the people who may be able to provide the necessary support.

The lyrics progress to describe the protagonist's dream of climbing out and seeing the face of the one they desire connection with. Scaling the walls that they've put up symbolizes breaking down their emotional barriers or defenses in order to establish a genuine connection. However, the realization comes that there is no solace in the pit they've created, emphasizing the need for change and growth.

The chorus repeats, with the rain still representing distress and the voice calling out, but fading away. This suggests missed opportunities or the reluctance to fully engage with the support offered. The climax of the lyrics comes when the water arrives, bringing the protagonist to the surface and providing answers to questions they never asked. This symbolizes a moment of clarity and realization of their true purpose.

In the resolution, the voice still calls out but fades away, highlighting the continued struggle to fully embrace the support and guidance offered. The repetition of the line, "Push me away," reinforces the conflict between seeking help and resisting it. The lyrics conclude with a final plea to be pushed away, reflecting the ongoing inner turmoil within the protagonist.