Meaning of "Chains" by The Airborne Toxic Event

The lyrics of "Chains" by The Airborne Toxic Event delve into the theme of restlessness, loneliness, and the search for escape from emotional burdens. The narrator is depicted as struggling with feelings of isolation and a deep yearning for connection, as they wander through the empty streets and bars of the city at night. The sense of entrapment is symbolized by the chains that bind them to their thoughts and memories, reflecting a desire for liberation and release from the weight of the past. The mention of past mistakes and hiding secrets adds to the complexity of the narrator's emotional state, hinting at a need for forgiveness and reconciliation. The repeated refrain of breaking these chains conveys a sense of urgency and determination to break free from the confines of their own mind and surroundings. The imagery of riding nerves and choking engines suggests a sense of being overwhelmed by internal struggles and external pressures, further emphasizing the need for escape and relief. Overall, "Chains" paints a poignant picture of inner turmoil, longing for connection, and the relentless pursuit of freedom from the shackles of the past.