Ten Thousand Angels
E.C. Ball Lyrics

The lyrics of E.C. Ball's song "Ten Thousand Angels" depict a sense of impending doom and desperation. The opening lines suggest a feeling of imminent danger, as the singer believes the plane they are on is going down. They emphasize that this is not a drill and express a desire for this to be the way they go out. It is an intense and dramatic moment, causing their life to flash before their eyes. The mention of being "dead until they see" implies a sense of wasted potential, as if their existence is only truly noticed or appreciated in death.

The recurring line "Ten thousand feet in the air" serves as a motif throughout the song. Falling faster in the air, the singer's thoughts turn to a certain someone. This person holds great importance to them, as their thoughts of them begin to occupy their mind. The repetition of this line creates a sense of urgency and intensity, mirroring the feeling of free-falling.

The next verse takes a darker turn, as the singer refers to themselves and their loved one as the "living dead." They see their fate as intertwined, suggesting that they are going through a shared hardship or struggle. While others may believe the obstacles are behind them, the singer has a different perspective. They claim that they are in dire straits and declare that things are not as hopeful as others may perceive. They bluntly state, "We're so fucked," conveying a strong sense of hopelessness and despair.

The bridge of the song introduces a letter being written by the singer, which expresses their emotions and feelings. They hope it reaches the intended recipient, as it would provide clarity and allow them to understand the intensity of what they are experiencing. The singer acknowledges the presence of deception and lies they have encountered, emphasizing that no delusion will save the recipient's senses. This suggests that the truth is hard to grasp or accept, and hope in disguise is not a reliable source of comfort.

The final verse of the song reaffirms the singer's fear of the worst outcome. They express their dedication and loyalty, stating that they are on the recipient's side. The repeated lines of the chorus bring back the heightened emotions and urgency, underlining that every moment counts. The desire to find a way to let the recipient know their feelings remains present, as they express their wish for a way to convey their emotions.

Overall, "Ten Thousand Angels" portrays a sense of impending disaster, the feeling of being on the edge of a precipice, and the desperate need to communicate emotions before it's too late. The lyrics delve into themes of mortality, the complexities of relationships, and the longing for connection in the face of impending doom.