Meaning of "Orison" by Soen

The lyrics in "Orison" delve into the depths of human suffering and the longing for redemption. The opening lines "Wash off your sins / Bound by the burden of the grief that's found within / Drowned in a sea of sorrow bound to learn to swim" suggests the burdens of guilt and pain that the narrator or subject carries. It speaks to the universal experience of being weighed down by one's past mistakes and the struggle to find a way to transcend them.

The mention of being "shaped by the ills of fate that always felt unsure" reflects a sense of helplessness and uncertainty in the face of life's challenges. The lyrics imply that the individual has carried these burdens since birth, hinting at the idea that some people may have a predisposition to suffering or feeling lost in the world.

The line "In your eyes, I / Could see a loathing for the truth / You are burning within" touches on the theme of self-loathing and denial. It suggests that the narrator sees this inner turmoil and self-hatred reflected in the eyes of the subject, implying a struggle with facing the truth and accepting oneself.

The reference to being "dead" and the yearning for eternal life and sacrifice alludes to the desire for release from pain and the longing for something greater beyond the mortal realm. This evokes spiritual and existential themes, highlighting the human urge to find meaning and purpose in life, even if it means sacrificing oneself.

The lyrics also touch on the concept of resentment towards humanity, referred to as the "joys of humankind." This suggests a deep bitterness or resentment towards the happiness and contentment that others seem to experience, which serves as a source of further isolation and despair.

Overall, "Orison" explores the complex emotions and struggles that come with being human. It delves into themes of suffering, self-loathing, desire for redemption, and the search for transcendence.