Meaning of "All At Once" by Pete Yorn

The lyrics of "All At Once" by Pete Yorn depict a complex emotional landscape where the speaker grapples with inner demons. The old man in the kitchen could symbolize a darker, suppressed part of the speaker's own psyche, a part that he struggles to come to terms with. The burning of the old house could represent a desire to erase painful memories or experiences that haunt the speaker. The repeated refrain of breaking silence and hiding no more suggests a turning point where the speaker is ready to face his past and reveal his true feelings, even though it may be daunting. The caution against revealing the past to the old man or letting him know of their presence underscores the fear of confronting one's inner demons and the potential for self-destructive behavior if exposed to them. Overall, the lyrics explore themes of inner conflict, emotional vulnerability, and the complexities of confronting one's past.