Meaning of "Sound Of Silence" by Susan Wong

The lyrics of "Sound of Silence" delve into the themes of isolation, disillusionment, and the loss of human connection in the modern world. The narrator addresses the personified darkness as a familiar companion, seeking solace and an outlet for their thoughts and feelings. The vision mentioned may represent a sudden realization or epiphany that has shaken the narrator's perspective on life. The persistence of this vision is symbolized by the sound of silence, which remains within them. This highlights the profound impact and power of silence to convey emotion and thoughts that often go unspoken.

The verses describe the narrator walking alone in restless dreams, navigating narrow streets illuminated by a singular street lamp. The imagery of the streets and the mention of cobblestones evoke a sense of timelessness, while the halo of the street lamp suggests a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. However, the encounter with the neon light disrupts the silence and illuminates the emptiness and superficiality of the world. The flash of the neon light, representing the artificiality and distractions of modern society, pierces the narrator's eyes, symbolizing the harsh reality that cannot be ignored.

The subsequent verse emphasizes the lack of meaningful communication in society. The mention of ten thousand people may imply a large crowd, possibly representing the masses who are caught up in their own superficial lives, devoid of genuine connection. The repetition of "people talking without speaking" and "people hearing without listening" highlights the emptiness of conversations and the failure to truly understand and connect with one another. The reference to people writing songs that are never shared further emphasizes the lack of expression and understanding in society. The silence surrounding these unshared songs perpetuates the overall sense of alienation and isolation.

The lyrics also critique the worship of materialism and the disregard for spiritual and intellectual wisdom. The people are depicted as bowing and praying to the neon God they have created, referring to the obsession with material wealth and consumerism. The flashing sign serves as a warning, suggesting that the pursuit of such superficial desires leads to emptiness and spiritual deprivation. The reference to the words of the prophets being written on the subway walls and tenement halls implies that true wisdom and insight are often overlooked or disregarded in the noise and chaos of everyday life. The "sounds of silence" here are whispered by these neglected messages, highlighting the need for reflection and introspection amidst the constant noise and distractions.