Meaning of "Fear Of Fear" by Passenger

The lyrics of "Fear Of Fear" by Passenger delve into the narrator's attempt to escape their own fear and vulnerability through various distractions and vices. The use of repetitive phrases like "fill my" emphasizes the need for excessive filling, as if to drown out their inner turmoil. The references to smoke, beer, and cocaine hint at a desire to numb the pain and self-medicate. By filling their nights with bad jokes and their ears with ringing, they are surrounding themselves with noise and superficiality to avoid confronting their true emotions.

The line "Fill my wide with a narrow" captures the narrator's attempt to narrow their perspective and focus on immediate distractions, rather than facing their wider fears. The mention of shadows and dreams full of strangers further exemplify their avoidance of intimacy and deep connections. The repetition of "fill my heart with a fear of fear" showcases the internal conflict and paradoxical nature of their emotions. They fear fear itself, establishing a cycle of fear that keeps them trapped.

The lyric "Fill my cup half empty 'cause it's never been half full" suggests a pessimistic outlook on life, with the narrator acknowledging that they have always viewed things from a negative perspective. The metaphor of being painted over like a damp patch on the wall implies a desire to hide their true self behind a façade. The reference to lying on a neighbor's bathroom floor adds a sense of transience and impermanence to their existence.

The lyric "It's better to burn out than to fade out of sight" alludes to the idea of living life to the fullest, even if it means burning brightly but briefly. This can be interpreted as a rebellious and nihilistic perspective, where the narrator believes that intensity and passion, even if destructive, are preferable to a life of mediocrity and fading into obscurity.

Ultimately, "Fear Of Fear" presents a complex exploration of human nature, vulnerability, and the various ways people try to escape facing their fears. The lyrics highlight the paradoxical nature of fears and the consequences of avoiding them, ultimately questioning whether it is better to face fear head-on or continue filling one's life with distractions.