Meaning of "Shine" by Sylvan

The lyrics of "Shine" delve into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, specifically abuse and neglect. The singer grapples with the pain of their past, vividly describing the emotional scars that still haunt them. The repeated references to being a "forlorn child" highlight the sense of abandonment and vulnerability felt during those formative years. The plea for a child not to cry and to shine represents a desire to protect and nurture the innocence that was lost in the singer's own childhood. The lyrics also touch on the idea of forgiveness, as the singer acknowledges their own perceived weakness at the time and expresses a wish for a better future. The final lines bring a sense of empowerment and solidarity, with a promise that the cycle of abuse will not continue. Overall, "Shine" serves as a poignant reflection on the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma and the resilience needed to overcome it.