Meaning of "Remembrance" by Paradise Lost

"Remembrance" by Paradise Lost delves into the complexities of human relationships and the overwhelming burden of emotional pain. The first two lines of the song establish a dichotomy between the narrator and another person, highlighting their contrasting desires. While the narrator is the one people come to for solace or guidance, they admit to wanting to escape from those who seek them. This conflicting desire for connection and escape sets the tone for the rest of the song.

The phrase "Fading to grey, the wanton pray" suggests a sense of disillusionment and weariness. The narrator's surroundings are losing color and vibrancy, mirroring their fading emotions. The use of the word "wanton" implies a sense of reckless or excessive behavior, hinting at the desperation or longing present in the narrator's life. This line encapsulates the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of emptiness and frustration.

The subsequent lines "You'll find shelter, I'll find none, I'll leave you pointless life undone" further explore the narrator's longing to escape. While others may find solace and refuge, the narrator remains in a state of unrest and dissatisfaction. The idea of leaving someone's life "undone" suggests that the narrator believes their presence or influence is detrimental or unfulfilling. This could be interpreted as a desire to protect others from their own pain, or perhaps as a form of self-preservation.

"Breathing your days, my anguish stays" speaks to the emotional burden carried by the narrator. The act of breathing, typically associated with life and vitality, becomes a reminder of their suffering. The juxtaposition of the narrator's anguish with the notion of preserving someone else's life suggests a deep-seated loneliness and a lack of fulfillment in their own existence.

The line "Fate of my face, I've seen your face, I turn and run, you'll have no place" alludes to a past connection or relationship. The narrator recognizes their own destiny or fate, and in doing so, has also witnessed the face of the person they are addressing. The decision to turn and run suggests both fear and a desire to protect themselves. The phrase "you'll have no place" conveys a sense of rejection, implying that the narrator believes the other person won't fit into their life or understand their struggles.

The final line, "Remember life now?" serves as a call to action, urging the listener to reflect on their own existence. It prompts introspection and contemplation, forcing the listener to question the true meaning and purpose of their own life. It also links back to the recurring theme of escape and abandonment, inviting the listener to remember what it truly means to live and to critically examine their own path.

Overall, "Remembrance" delves into themes of longing, disappointment, and escape while exploring the complexities of human relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of emotional turmoil and the burden of carrying one's own pain, ultimately leaving the listener with a thought-provoking question about the essence of life.