Meaning of "Guardian Angel" by Riverside

The lyrics of "Guardian Angel" by Riverside highlight the devastating consequences of violence and the moral dilemmas that arise in its aftermath. The opening lines depict a scene where the wind is dying down, and the speaker can no longer hear the cries and wails of those affected by the conflict. This suggests a moment of relative calm after the storm of violence has subsided. The shooting has stopped, but the speaker remains uncertain about who has survived, emphasizing the loss and destruction caused by the conflict.

The line "They used to be friends and now they simply wiped each other out" underscores the tragic nature of the conflict. It reveals the senselessness of such violence, as individuals who were once close now bring about each other's demise. This serves as a critique of the destructive power of conflict and the futility of resolving differences through violence.

The speaker then contemplates the blurred line between fear and callousness, questioning what is right and wrong in such circumstances. They express a desire to find redemption for their own sins, seeking echoes of morality to guide them towards a fresh start. This introspection suggests a recognition of the moral ramifications of the violence they have witnessed, highlighting the need for personal growth and change.

Despite feeling trapped in a situation with "nowhere to escape," the speaker presents themselves as a guardian angel, possessing the knowledge and key to a different path. By offering to take someone with them, they display a sense of compassion and a desire to protect another from the horrors they have experienced. This act of selflessness suggests a belief in the possibility of saving oneself through saving others, and finding solace in the companionship and support of another.

Overall, "Guardian Angel" explores the consequences of violence and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals caught in its aftermath. It calls for introspection, redemption, and the importance of compassion and companionship in navigating through life's darkest moments.