Meaning of "Broken Lives" by Our Last Night

The lyrics of "Broken Lives" delve into themes of self-reflection, personal accountability, and resilience in the face of adversity. The song opens with the call to open one's eyes, emphasizing the importance of facing reality and becoming aware of the challenges ahead. By acknowledging the darkness and fighting through it, one can overcome the difficulties that life throws their way. The repetition of the phrase "through the dark times" emphasizes the need to persevere and find strength within oneself.

The song then delves into the concept of blaming others for one's failures and shortcomings. The lyrics mention the New World Order, the Illuminati, corrupt politicians, and the economy as examples of external factors that can easily be blamed for one's own lack of success or happiness. However, the repetition of the line "As long as it wasn't me" highlights the avoidance of personal responsibility and the tendency to shift blame onto others. The use of these societal references suggests that blaming external forces is often a defense mechanism to avoid facing one's own flaws and insecurities.

The turning point in the song comes when the narrator reveals a moment of self-awareness. They admit to being envious of others and blaming everyone else for their lack of love and fulfillment. However, in a moment of introspection, the narrator lifts their head and looks into the mirror, confronting their own reflection. This powerful image implies that true growth and acceptance come from examining oneself and taking responsibility for one's own actions and choices.

The chorus reiterates the need to open one's eyes and hold onto the light to make it through the dark times. The lyrics emphasize that everyone lives broken lives, suggesting that imperfections and struggles are universal experiences. It serves as a reminder that no one is alone in their hardships and that the journey to self-improvement and healing is a shared human experience.

In the closing lines, the lyrics touch on the transient nature of life and the vulnerability of human existence. The imagery of going down in flames and failing to live up to invisible names reflects the fragility of our hearts and the pressure society places on individuals to meet certain expectations. Despite these challenges, the lyrics emphasize the importance of remembering that we all live broken lives, highlighting the shared humanity that connects us all.